Document guide
Writing sample or essay
An essay, assignment or piece of academic writing, either existing or written for the application.
What it is
An existing piece of your writing (a term paper, thesis chapter, published article) or an essay written to a prompt set by the programme.
Why programmes ask for it
To assess how you think and write. FilmMemory sets an assignment or essay in its first selection round; MESPOM asks for a career-goals essay.
Who issues it
You.
What it usually contains
For an existing sample: a self-contained piece with a clear argument and references. For a set essay: a direct answer to the prompt.
How to prepare it
- Read the prompt and length limit carefully.
- For an existing sample, choose recent work in a related field; add a short note on context if it is an excerpt.
- For a set essay, plan an argument before writing; answer the question asked.
- Cite sources properly. Undeclared use of others' text is grounds for rejection.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring the prompt or the length limit.
- Submitting a group paper as your own.
- Poor referencing.
Quality-control checklist
- Answers the prompt or is clearly relevant.
- Within the length limit.
- Properly referenced and entirely your own writing.
Lead time (planning estimate)
One to three weeks for a set essay; a few days to select and edit an existing sample.
Commonly useful or programme-dependent?
Programme-dependent.