How to Create a Video Essay for Your College Application

A video essay serves as a personal introduction on a college application. As a modern trend in the application process, some colleges and universities allow prospective students to submit a video essay, either in the place of the traditional written essay or, sometimes, as a separate element of the application packet.

With a video essay, you can naturally highlight your personality while providing the decision-makers with a glimpse into your world. You have the power to present yourself in a more personal medium than the regular written word.

Video essays are especially relevant when applying to US schools. What was once limited to art and design schools is now part of the normal process for universities like Brown, the University of Chicago, and Tufts. This modern twist on essays allows undergraduate and graduate students to express themselves in a way that was once reserved for social media.

To impress the college admissions representatives of your chosen college or university, it is important to take the proper measures when planning. When preparing your video, give plenty of forethought to make your best first impression.

How to make a video essay

First, verify how long the video can run. Your institution’s requirements should specify this information. For example, the University of Chicago allows videos of up to two minutes. When creating a video essay, it is beneficial to focus on your presentation and choose your words wisely.

1. Choose a topic.

Some programmes may invite you to discuss a particular topic or prompts, and others will want the video essay to serve as a personal introduction in place of an interview.

If the video serves as an interview, include the answers to the following questions: 

• Why do you wish to attend this specific school?

• What will you bring to the college campus?

• What will you do when you arrive?

Overall, you can use the video to show why you’ll be a natural fit at the university.

2. Create an outline and script.

University representatives will focus on various aspects of your video, but they mainly want to understand who you are and what you have to offer to the university. Plan your talking points, create a script, and practice by recording yourself before finally submitting your application.

A video script is different from a written essay. Make a logically organised list of the topics you want to cover in a way that allows you to speak naturally and comfortably to the camera. Use the outline to guide you as you record in lieu of memorising a script.

Record yourself with your phone’s camera or another device, and practise the presentation until you feel comfortable. Time yourself to stay within the time limit predefined by the programme you're applying to. Once you feel satisfied with your script, you’ll be ready for the next step.

3. Use imagery and audio files.

Think about the scene you are depicting in the video and prepare your background accordingly. If you’re in your bedroom, for example, make sure it’s tidy and clean. Display things that visibly render your interests, such as sports trophies or a stack of your favourite nonfiction books. Using your environment is a great way to add more personality to your video essay. 

You can also film your video in a nearby park or landmark to represent your interests and environment and make good use of natural lighting. Use the setting to reveal a part of your personality and attract the interest of your college admissions representative. 

Along with a video of you talking, you may wish to include additional images, video, and audio files that go along with your message. Collect all your content first before initiating the editing process.

4. Upload files into editing software.

Demonstrate your presentation skills by doing more than one take of your video and editing them to create a polished final cut. For this, you can use any of the trusted free editing software, including iMovie and Lightworks, which are typically user-friendly. You can drag and drop any file you upload and add sound and visual effects as you edit your content.

For tutorials on new software, look for relevant courses on Coursera, such as Mastering Final Cut Pro, where you’ll learn skills to make your video look professional.

Keep your post-production simple, as the content of your video may be studied more than the graphics and transitions—unless you’re applying to pursue a videography degree course.

5. Share or submit your work.

Follow the submission guidelines described in the university’s application process to ensure you meet all requirements. You may only need to submit a link to your video upload from a commonly used video-sharing website.

If such is the case, upload your completed video essay for free on popular video-sharing platforms like Vimeo or YouTube. Once you’ve uploaded your video to your preferred site, you will have the option to copy a shareable link. Before you send the link, test it on your computer or phone to make sure it leads to your video.

Use the Common App to submit your essay.

Many higher secondary education students in the US are familiar with the Common App, which hundreds of colleges and universities use to streamline the process of application. Common App is accepted by over 1,000 schools. While many of these institutions are in the US, many non-US private and public universities around the world may also access the programme. For the 2024–2025 school year, seven different essay prompts were available for the traditional written essay [1].

For some institutions, you may have the option to submit your essay through the Common App. You may also be able to submit a video essay in place of a written essay or as its complement. You’ll need to research and follow the directions of the institution you’re applying to.

Take note of these best practices of video production to make sure your video is both memorable and favourable.

Videography tips for success 

Apply your top-notch creativity in this nontraditional medium to produce your video essay. Discuss ideas for your video with a guidance counsellor, parent, or trusted teacher. Ask them for feedback to make sure the message resonates properly.

Improve your video essay with a few more tips:

• Have good lighting and sound: Present a pleasing visual experience, and avoid distracting the viewer with shadows, cluttered backgrounds, and loud background noises. Sit near a window to use natural sunlight and prevent a washed-out appearance.

• Dress for success: Wear a presentable outfit as if you are preparing for an in-person interview. Strive for business or business casual attire, tidy hair, and positive body language. This will improve your confidence as well as send the message that you’re serious about your application.

• Answer questions directly: If the school asks specific questions or requires specific prompts on their application process, make sure to directly provide the answers to each of them. Stay on topic during the creative process. Write the questions and timestamp of the video where they’re answered.

• Be yourself: One of the most important aspects of submitting a video essay is to be authentic and relaxed. Review your script and practice so you can naturally express yourself without relying heavily on reading your script. Give yourself plenty of time to complete the project, and remember to meet the submission deadline.

Prepare for your video essay with Coursera

Submitting a well-planned, genuine video essay may help you get into the college or university programme you desire. Practise your presentation skills and increase your confidence before working on your video essay with the following courses from top universities, available on Coursera: 

• Effective Communication: Writing, Design, and Presentation Specialisation

• Storytelling and Influencing: Communicate with Impact

• Speaking Skills for University Success

• Speak English Professionally: In Person, Online, and on the Phone