Common English Mistakes in Admission Essays by Mandarin Chinese Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Mandarin Chinese speakers from Taiwan when writing a Admission Essay in English.

Mistake Example #1

Omitting the subject in sentences ('Is important to learn English' instead of 'It is important to learn English')

Applying to your university is adream for me. It is important to study in an environment where innovation is encouraged. HI hope to contribute tothe campus community with my unique perspective from Taiwan.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"This was very good! Just a few small changes were needed to correct grammar errors. "

Applying to your university is a dream for me. It is important to study in an environment where innovation is encouraged. I hope to contribute to the campus community with my unique perspective from Taiwan.

Applying to your university is dream for me. Is important to study in environment where innovation is encouraged. Hope to contribute to campus community with my unique perspective from Taiwan.

Mistake Example #2

Misuse of singular/plural nouns ('There are much people here' instead of 'There are many people here')

Applying to your esteemed university is a great honor for me. There are many reasons why I want to studyenroll in your program, but the most important oneis the opportunity to learn from so muchany experienced professors. In Taiwan, education is highly valued, and I believe there are muchany benefits into studying abroad to gain diverse perspectives.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Nice job! I polished up the text and fixed some issues with singular/plural nouns."

Applying to your esteemed university is a great honor for me. There are many reasons why I want to enroll in your program, but the most important one is the opportunity to learn from so many experienced professors. In Taiwan, education is highly valued, and I believe there are many benefits to studying abroad to gain diverse perspectives.

Applying to your esteemed university is a great honor for me. There are many reason why I want to study in your program, but the most important is the opportunity to learn from so much experienced professors. In Taiwan, education is highly valued, and I believe there are much benefit in studying abroad to gain diverse perspectives.

Mistake Example #3

Using overly formal or direct language

I am writing this essay to express myhow interestroed I am ing desire to attending youresteemed university. Itis mrulyfirm belief thatve your institutichool can wgill provide me withthe supadvanceriord education I rnequired to accomplishieve my futuregoambitionls. Ia'm confident that myacademic background and dedication will contributea positivelyaddition to your academic community.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to sound more native and natural."

I am writing this essay to express how interested I am in attending your university. I truly believe your school can give me the advanced education I need to accomplish my goals. I'm confident that my background and dedication will be a positive addition to your academic community.

I am writing this essay to express my strong desire to attend your esteemed university. It is my firm belief that your institution will provide me with the superior education I require to achieve my future ambitions. I am confident that my academic background and dedication will contribute positively to your academic community.