College application grammar question?

Question

Hey - I was wondering if it is bad to use contractions like "isn't" or "haven't" etc. in college essays and short answers. I'm applying to the University of Michigan and was just wondering because I'm in the process of filling all of this stuff out, thanks. :)

Answer 1

Never use contractions in formal writing, which a college essay is.

Answer 2

They will not turn down your admission if you do use contractions, but it will look a lot better not to use them.  Since university admission essays and applications are a formal process, you want to use more formal speech, therefore, you should write out the full phrase.

Answer 3

isn't and haven't are contractions - Always spell words out in formal writing.  It shows a mature use of the language on the writer's part.