College admissions and academic essays share a similar organization simply because any good essay follows a general organizational flow. A basic five-paragraph essay introduces the main idea or thesis as well as three arguments that support that thesis in the first paragraph. The second paragraph introduces the first argument and supporting points. The third paragraph introduces the second argument and supporting points. The fourth paragraph introduces the third argument and supporting points. The final paragraph both ties all the arguments back to the thesis and closes the essay. The difference between a college and academic essay is the content; a college essay draws from the personal while an academic essay must be objective.
Though both college admissions essays and academic essays must be written professionally, the voice and tone may differ. An admissions essay is much more informal in tone; it is appropriate to use personal pronouns because the writer is sharing personal experiences and goals. An academic essay, regardless of style, is far more formal and the use of the third person is appropriate.
An admissions essay is your opportunity to prove you are an excellent candidate. The goal is to effectively communicate your strengths. An academic essay is designed to effectively argue a point through research and careful study of your subject.
A college admissions essay is delivered to and read by the admissions board. Although you can't know the people on the board personally, doing a little research about the college to which you are applying can help you know your audience a little better. An academic essay is usually read only by the teacher who assigned it; however, it should always be written as if an intelligent person who is not familiar with the topic is reading it.
College admissions essays serve as a writing sample as well as an your introduction to the admissions board. It is the first opportunity the admissions board will have to get to know you as a candidate, so a well-written and interesting essay is important to your college career. Academic essays are also of great importance because they are your opportunity to display the skills you've learned throughout your education. They are usually assigned a grade as well. Well-written academic essays throughout your high school career have a significant impact on your transcript.