The short answer is yes, you can submit videos as part of your college applications (for certain colleges, not all accept them). Whereas earlier, video applicants were a common requirement for applications to art and design schools, nowadays they are being accepted by more and more 4-year colleges. This is great news if you are applying to college as it gives you yet another way to make your application stand out.
Can You Submit Videos as Part of Your College Application?
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The answer to this question really depends on the school. Some schools do allow you to submit a video in lieu of an essay, while others may actually require a video as part of the application process.
For example, art and design schools tend to allow videos and are a common requirement. And these days, more and more 4 year colleges, such as liberal art schools, are accepting video applications from their potential students.
How Do You Know if You Can Submit Videos with Your Application?
If a video isn’t required as part of your college application, then you can start with the school’s website. Does the site say they accept (or don’t) videos? If the website isn’t clear, your next step should be to reach out to the college’s admissions department. They will be able to tell you if the school accepts video submissions and how you can send yours in.
So Should You Submit a Video in Your College Application?
Whether or not you should submit a video with your college application really depends on the college in question. Whichever approach you take, you should absolutely follow the school’s rules. If they don’t ask for a video and say they don’t accept them, definitely do not send one in. You could be hurting your admission chances by failing to follow their requests!
And, of course, if the college requires you to submit a video, don’t skip this crucial step. Failing to supply all the necessary aspects of an application package could result in a rejection letter before you even really start!
If the video is optional, though, it could give your application a bit of a boost over other students as you’re displaying you’re willing to go the extra mile.
Tips For Creating College Application Video
When creating a video for your college application, it’s important to do it right. We’ve put together some tips that will help you be successful!
1. Be Unique (Within Reason)
One way to stand out among your peers is to be unique! Make a video that speaks to your personality and highlights your achievements. It’s okay to get creative, but you may want to stay away from gimmicks. You want to be remembered for the right reasons!
2. Write a Script
Having trouble remembering what you’re going to say? Write a loose script for you to follow! You shouldn’t be reading it on camera, but instead reciting it. We say “loose” because you don’t want to sound like you’re speaking from memory either. It may aid you to write out points you want to touch upon during your video that you can memorize and reference. You can even keep it out of the frame to give a quick glance if you forget where you are!
3. Relax BeforeHand
Unless you’re a drama student or have worked with film before, you might have an issue with your nerves just before you get on camera. Make sure to take a few breaths, walk around the room, and relax your body before getting in front of the lens.
4. Get a Few Takes
You likely won’t get your best take the first time you do your video application! Your nerves are likely jumping, and you may struggle to remember everything you wanted to stay. It’s okay to do it a few times until you get a take you’re happy with.
5. Make Sure Your Face is Clearly Shown
Of course, you’re highlighting yourself in this video! You don’t want to wear a mask, be in the shadows, or otherwise hide any part of your face. Use lighting or natural light so you are easily recognizable. This will also help you be more memorable to the college.
6. Follow Any Requirements
If your potential college requires the video, be sure you are following the guidelines. Some rules may revolve around video length, content, questions you should be answering, how your face is framed, and more. Review these before you film and before you submit to make sure you checked all the boxes.
Whether or not you create a video for your college application really depends on what the school in question is looking for. If it’s optional, it may just be worth your time to create a short video that highlights your points, achievements, and why you want to attend the school. However, always keep rules and requirements in mind when creating yours!
Video essays are likely only a part of your college application. From written essays to SAT/ACT scores, schools are looking for well-rounded students. Want to see your admission chances to your dream school? Start with College Raptor’s College Match.
Shoot from close up and show your face clearly in the video. It will help the viewer put a face to the name, and make your essay more memorable.