Common App: Your Ultimate Guide to Applying for College: Navigating the college application process can be overwhelming, especially if you’re applying to multiple schools. Fortunately, the Common Application, or Common App, simplifies this process by allowing students to apply to numerous colleges and universities through a single online platform. Over 900 institutions in the United States and abroad accept the Common App, making it one of the most popular tools for students seeking higher education opportunities.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Common App, from creating your account to submitting your applications. Whether you’re applying to one school or several, understanding how to use the Common App effectively can help streamline the process and increase your chances of success.
What is the Common App?
The Common App is an online college application platform that allows students to apply to multiple colleges and universities with one central application. Instead of filling out individual applications for each institution, students can complete one application and submit it to multiple schools, saving time and effort.
The Common App includes several key components:
- Personal Information: Basic details about the student, including contact information, family background, and educational history.
- Academic Records: high school transcripts, test scores, and details about academic performance.
- Extracurricular Activities: A section to highlight your involvement in clubs, sports, volunteer work, and other activities outside the classroom.
- Personal Statement: A required essay where students can share more about themselves, their goals, and their experiences.
- Supplemental Essays: Some schools may require additional short essays or writing prompts as part of their application process.
- Letters of Recommendation: Many schools request letters of recommendation from teachers, counsellors, or mentors to support your application.
By completing these components, you can apply to multiple institutions with just a few clicks.
Why Use the Common App?
There are several advantages to using the Common App, especially if you’re applying to multiple colleges. Here’s why students choose the Common App:
1. Simplifies the Application Process
Instead of juggling multiple applications, deadlines, and requirements, the Common App consolidates everything into one platform. You can input your personal details, academic information, and essays once and use them to apply to multiple schools, which saves time and effort.
2. Apply to Multiple Schools at Once
The Common App allows you to apply to multiple schools simultaneously. With over 900 participating institutions, including many top-ranked universities in the U.S. and abroad, you can send applications to several schools in one go.
3. Centralised Tracking
The Common App dashboard allows you to track the status of your applications, view upcoming deadlines, and see which components (transcripts, recommendations, etc.) are still missing. This feature helps you stay organised throughout the application process.
4. Access to Financial Aid Information
The Common App also provides a section for students to input their financial aid information, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many schools use the Common App to evaluate both your admission and financial aid eligibility, ensuring a streamlined process.
5. Customisable for Each School
While the Common App standardises most of the application, it also allows individual schools to request additional materials, such as supplemental essays or specific questions. This ensures that your application is tailored to each institution’s requirements.
How to Get Started with the Common App
Getting started with the Common App is straightforward, but there are a few steps to ensure you’re fully prepared to complete your applications. Here’s how to get started:
1. Create a Common App Account
To begin, visit the official Common App website (www.commonapp.org) and create an account. You’ll need to provide some basic information, such as your name, email address, and password. Once your account is set up, you’ll be able to log in and start working on your applications.
2. Add Your Schools to Your List
After creating your account, you can start adding colleges to your “My Colleges” list. Search for the schools you’re interested in and add them to your list. You can apply to up to 20 institutions through the Common App, but make sure you’re mindful of each school’s specific requirements.
3. Complete the Common App Sections
The Common App is divided into several sections, each requiring specific information about you. These sections include:
- Profile: This is where you enter your personal information, including contact details, family background, and citizenship status.
- Education: Here, you’ll provide details about your high school, grades, and classes you’ve taken.
- Testing: If applicable, input your standardised test scores (SAT, ACT, etc.). Some schools are test-optional, so you can choose whether or not to include these.
- Activities: List your extracurricular activities, work experience, and hobbies. You’ll have space to explain your role and any leadership positions you’ve held.
- Writing: This is where you’ll upload your personal statement—a key component of your application. It’s your chance to tell your story and explain why you’re a good fit for the colleges you’re applying to.
4. Write and Submit the Personal Statement
The Common App personal statement is a 650-word essay that allows you to showcase who you are beyond grades and test scores. Choose from a set of prompts provided by the Common App, and write an essay that highlights your personal experiences, challenges, achievements, and goals. Be sure to:
- Focus on your unique voice and perspective.
- Be genuine and reflect on your personal growth.
- Proofread carefully for grammar, spelling, and clarity.
5. Add Letters of Recommendation
Many colleges require one or more letters of recommendation from teachers, counsellors, or other mentors. You can request recommendations directly through the Common App by adding your recommenders’ contact information. Once added, the Common App will send a request to your recommenders, allowing them to submit their letters directly.
6. Complete Supplementary Materials
Some schools may require additional information, such as supplemental essays or short answer questions. These are specific to each college and are typically found in the “My Colleges” section of the Common App. Be sure to review each school’s requirements and complete all supplementary materials before submitting your application.
7. Pay the Application Fees
Most schools charge an application fee through the Common App. However, fee waivers are available for students with financial need. If you qualify for a waiver, make sure to request one in the Common App to avoid paying the fee.
Common App Deadlines and Submission Tips
While the Common App simplifies the college application process, it’s important to stay on top of deadlines and ensure your application is complete. Here are some tips for submitting your applications:
1. Know Your Deadlines
Each school has its own application deadlines, which are listed in the “My Colleges” section of the Common App. Keep track of important deadlines such as:
- Early Action: Typically in November, Early Action allows you to apply early and receive a decision sooner, without committing to attend.
- Early Decision: Similar to Early Action, but binding. If accepted, you must attend the school.
- Regular Decision: The standard deadline for most schools is usually in January or February.
- Rolling Admissions: Some schools accept applications on a rolling basis, meaning they review applications as they come in.
2. Submit All Required Documents
Make sure to submit all required documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores, by the deadline. Use the Common App dashboard to check the status of each document and confirm that everything has been submitted.
3. Double-Check Your Application
Before submitting, review your application carefully. Make sure all sections are complete and your personal statement and essays are polished. Once you submit your application, you cannot make changes, so it’s important to ensure everything is accurate.
4. Submit Early
Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. Submitting early can help you avoid technical issues and give you peace of mind that your application is in on time.
Tips for Writing a Strong Common App Essay
The Common App essay is one of the most important components of your application, as it allows admissions officers to see beyond your grades and test scores. Here are some tips for writing a compelling essay:
1. Choose the Right Prompt
The Common App provides several essay prompts to choose from. Select a prompt that resonates with you and allows you to share a meaningful story or personal experience.
2. Be Authentic
Admissions officers want to hear your unique voice. Write about something that truly matters to you, and avoid trying to impress with overly complex language or topics that don’t reflect who you are.
3. Show Personal Growth
Focus on how your experiences have shaped you. Highlight moments of personal growth, resilience, or learning, and connect them to your future goals.
4. Keep It Concise and Engaging
With a 650-word limit, every word counts. Be clear and concise, and make sure your essay has a strong opening to grab the reader’s attention. Avoid repetition and focus on making your point effectively.
5. Proofread and Edit
Don’t rush your essay. Take time to revise, edit, and proofread your writing. Consider asking a teacher, counsellor, or trusted mentor to review your essay for feedback.
Conclusion
The Common App is a valuable tool for simplifying the college application process, allowing you to apply to multiple schools with ease. By understanding how to navigate the platform, completing each section carefully, and crafting a strong personal statement, you can increase your chances of securing admission to your top-choice schools.
Take advantage of the Common App’s centralised features, stay organised, and start your application early to ensure you meet all deadlines and requirements. With the right preparation and a well-thought-out application, the Common App can help you on your path to higher education.
