Ready-to-Use Templates

College Essay Templates & Frameworks

Stop staring at a blank page. Use the same frameworks elite consultants give their clients— fill-in-the-blank structures for personal statements and supplements.

The Two Essay Structures Elite Consultants Use

Every successful essay follows one of these frameworks

Narrative Structure

For challenges, setbacks, or transformations

Challenge/Effect (33%)

Set the scene. What happened? How did it affect you?

"The first time I [specific moment], I felt [emotion/physical sensation]..."

What You Did (33%)

Your response. What actions did you take?

"Instead of [expected response], I decided to [specific action]..."

What You Learned (33%)

The insight. How did this change you?

"Now, when I [situation], I [new approach/perspective]..."

Montage Structure

For showcasing multiple facets of identity

Thematic Thread

An object, metaphor, or role that connects moments

"My [object/role] has been with me through [transition]..."

3-5 Vignettes

Connected moments that reveal different aspects

"At [location/time], my [thread] meant [insight]. But at [different context]..."

Deeper Meaning

What the thread reveals about who you are

"Looking at my [thread] now, I see [evolved understanding]..."

The "Why Us" Supplement Template

The formula that shows genuine interest every time

Hook + Specific Connection

Open with something specific to THIS school

"When I read Professor [Name]'s paper on [specific topic], I found myself staying up until 3 AM, annotating every page..."

Your Background + How It Connects

Bridge your experience to their offerings

"My work on [your project/interest] has taught me [insight], which is why [School]'s [specific program/course] feels like the natural next step..."

What You'll Contribute

Flip the script—show what you bring

"At [organization/club], I would bring [specific perspective or skill]. I imagine collaborating with [type of students] on [specific project idea]..."

The White-Out Test: If you white-out the school name and another school could fit, your essay isn't specific enough. Go deeper with research.

Preview All Templates

See the complete framework collection in the Ivy Essay Blueprint

Templates & Worksheets Included

Narrative Structure Template

Montage Structure Template

'Why Us' Supplement Formula

Essence Objects Exercise Worksheet

'I Remember' Brainstorming List

Values Exercise Worksheet

Research Template for Each School

Pre-Submission Checklist

The SHOW Framework Quick Reference

School-Specific Prompt Guides

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