Are writing requirements different for middle school versus high school applicants?

Generally, yes. The older your child, the more writing they’re expected to produce. Middle school applicants usually get shorter prompts, fewer essays, and sometimes a single statement about who they are or what they enjoy. High school applicants, though? They’re often writing multiple essays, tackling big questions, and are expected to show deeper self-reflection and stronger writing mechanics. 

Some high schools even ask for graded essays or optional supplements. The good news is, younger students aren’t penalized for being, well, younger. Admissions teams know the difference between a 5th grader and a 9th grader—and they’re not looking for a college thesis from either.