Lights, Camera & Admissions: How Video Essays Are Redefining 2025 College Admissions?

U.S. College Admissions Video Essays: In a digital shift that’s transforming how students apply to university, admissions video essays are emerging as the latest trend in the U.S. college application process. Colleges in the U.S. have taken a digital turn with the Video Essays being in the process. This also shows that colleges have past the game of just the GPA's, SAT and ACT Scores and extracurriculars. 

With application numbers soaring, institutions such as Brown, Vanderbilt, Duke, and the University of Chicago are increasingly inviting students to swap the traditional essay or interview for a short video introduction. Let us explore what are these college admissions video essays in this blog and how it will help the students.

What are the Video Essays?

These video clips are often limited to 90 seconds. They are designed to capture an applicant’s personality, voice, and authenticity, which are the traits that can be hard to convey through written words. Some universities also use platforms like Glimpse to standardise submissions, while others allow more open-ended formats, encouraging creativity.

Further the Admissions officers say that the move helps them assess qualities like energy, communication, and presence. “A few seconds of spontaneous speech can reveal far more than a polished essay,” said one admissions counsellor.

Colleges Offering Video Submissions

While some treat them as optional introductions, others see them as an important tool to understand applicants beyond their grades and test scores. Here are a few leading institutions that welcome video submissions:

• Brown University: Invites an optional introductory video where applicants can discuss their interests, experiences, and what makes them unique.

• Duke University: Allows optional videos through its portal to provide additional personal context.

• Swarthmore College: Encourages short clips that showcase the applicant’s character and real-life experiences.

• University of Chicago: Recommends an optional two-minute video for students to tell their story or highlight qualities not shown elsewhere.

• Vanderbilt University: Offers an optional “VU Video Essay” where students can spotlight their personal journey or achievements.

• Washington University in St. Louis: Accepts a 90-second video for applicants to share something meaningful about themselves.

What It Means for the Applicants?

For students, the rise of video essays offers a new opportunity to show who they really are—beyond marks and paperwork.

Treat it as a genuine conversation, not a polished film project. Admissions teams value sincerity over production quality, so focus on speaking clearly and naturally.

Use the clip to share qualities, experiences, or passions that your written application doesn’t fully capture. Keep it brief, honest, and unfiltered, because in the end, what truly matters is your message, not the camera angles or edits.

Pros and Cons of Admissions Video Essays

As video submissions gain popularity across U.S. college applications, they will bring both exciting opportunities and notable challenges. Here is a clear look at the advantages and drawbacks:

Quick Tips for a Winning Video Essay

• Keep it short by making the video under 90 seconds.

• Choose a quiet, well-lit setting.

• Avoid over-rehearsing or editing heavily.

• Focus on one or two key qualities or experiences.

• Be yourself, and the goal is to connect, not to impress.

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Conclusion 

Therefore, as the trend spreads, video essays are redefining how colleges identify potential. Whether the innovation becomes a staple or a fad, one thing is clear that the future of admissions may increasingly be filmed in 4K.