articles details

The Common Application, often referred to as the Common App, is a widely used college application platform that allows students to apply to multiple colleges and universities with a single application. It streamlines the admissions process by enabling students to fill out one application and submit it to multiple schools. For students applying to several colleges, the Common App can save time and effort. Here's a breakdown of how the Common App works and how you can use it effectively to apply to colleges.

Creating a Common App Account

The first step in using the Common App is creating an account. Visit the official Common Application website and provide your personal details, such as your name, email address, and password. Once you’ve registered, you’ll have access to the application portal, where you can begin filling out the necessary information. Creating an account is free, and you can save your work and return to it as you go through the application process.

Adding Colleges to Your List

Once your account is set up, you can begin adding colleges to your application list. The Common App allows you to apply to over 900 colleges and universities across the United States and even some abroad. You can search for schools by location, name, or program, and once you add a school to your list, it will appear in your dashboard.

Each college you add may have additional application requirements or questions specific to that school, so make sure to review these carefully after selecting the institutions you wish to apply to.

Filling Out the Common App Sections

The Common App includes several sections that you will need to complete. Here’s an overview of the key sections:

• Profile: This section asks for basic personal information such as your name, date of birth, address, and contact details. You’ll also be asked about your citizenship status, gender, and other demographic details.
• Family: In this section, you will provide information about your family, including details about your parents or guardians, their educational background, and occupations. It also includes information about your family’s income for financial aid purposes.
• Education: The Education section asks for details about your high school, including its name, location, and the courses you’ve taken. You will also need to enter your GPA, class rank (if applicable), and standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT) if required by the schools you’re applying to.
• Testing: In this section, you’ll enter your standardized test scores, including SAT, ACT, or other exams you’ve taken. Some colleges are test-optional, meaning you don’t have to submit these scores, so check each school’s requirements before entering your test information.
• Activities: Here, you’ll list any extracurricular activities, work experience, internships, volunteer work, and leadership positions you’ve held. You can include up to 10 activities and provide details about your involvement, time commitment, and any notable achievements.
• Personal Statement: One of the most important parts of the Common App is the personal essay. You’ll choose from several essay prompts provided by the platform and submit a 650-word essay that highlights your personality, experiences, and aspirations. This is your chance to give admissions officers a deeper understanding of who you are beyond grades and test scores.
• Disciplinary History: Some schools ask about your disciplinary history in this section. You may be required to disclose whether you’ve been disciplined or faced any legal issues during high school.
• Additional Information: This section allows you to provide any extra information that may not fit in other parts of the application. This could include explaining any special circumstances, like gaps in your academic record, or additional achievements you’d like to highlight.

Submitting Letters of Recommendation

Most colleges require one or more letters of recommendation, typically from teachers or counselors. Through the Common App, you can request these letters directly by entering your recommenders’ contact information. They will receive an email with instructions on how to submit their letters. Be sure to give your recommenders enough time to write and submit their letters before the application deadline.

Paying the Application Fees or Requesting a Fee Waiver

The Common App charges an application fee for each college you apply to. The fees can range from $50 to $90 per school, though they may vary by institution. Some schools may offer fee waivers to students who meet specific financial criteria, which can be requested through the Common App.

If you qualify for a fee waiver based on financial need, you’ll need to indicate this in the application. The Common App provides an option for students to request a waiver for the application fees as part of the submission process.

Submitting the Application

Once you’ve filled out all the sections and attached all necessary documents (like your personal essay, recommendation letters, and test scores), you can submit your application to the colleges on your list. Be sure to review everything carefully before hitting submit. After submission, you’ll typically receive a confirmation email, and your application will be sent to the schools you’ve chosen.

Tracking Your Application Status

After submitting your application, the Common App platform allows you to track the status of your applications. You can check if colleges have received your materials, such as test scores, transcripts, or recommendation letters. Many schools also provide additional instructions or steps for applicants after submission, such as scheduling interviews or submitting supplementary essays.

Using the Common App for Financial Aid

The Common App also includes a section for applying for financial aid. Most schools require the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the CSS Profile to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Some schools also require additional financial documentation, which can be submitted through the Common App. Be sure to check each school’s specific requirements for financial aid and deadlines.

Benefits of Using the Common App

The Common App simplifies the application process by allowing you to apply to multiple schools with one platform. It saves time and effort, as you don’t have to fill out individual applications for each school. Additionally, the Common App promotes a streamlined process for submitting essays, recommendation letters, and test scores, all in one place.

The Common Application platform is an invaluable tool for students applying to college. By following these steps, you can navigate the process more efficiently and ensure that your applications are complete, accurate, and submitted on time. With the right preparation and attention to detail, you can maximize your chances of gaining admission to your top-choice schools.