The Common Application, often referred to as the Common App, is a standardized online college application platform used by students to apply to multiple colleges and universities in the United States and abroad. It simplifies the college application process by allowing students to fill out one comprehensive application that can be submitted to numerous participating institutions. The Common App is widely used and accepted by a large number of colleges, providing a convenient and efficient way for students to manage and streamline their college application process.
The Common App begins with a section for personal information. In this part, students provide basic details such as their name, contact information, date of birth, and citizenship status. This section ensures that colleges have the necessary personal details to identify and communicate with applicants.
Next, students are required to input their academic history. This includes details about the high schools they have attended, their courses, grades, and any standardized test scores. This section helps colleges assess the academic preparedness and achievements of applicants.
The Common App includes a section dedicated to extracurricular activities. Here, students can list their involvement in clubs, sports, volunteer work, jobs, and other activities outside of the classroom. This part of the application allows students to showcase their interests, leadership skills, and commitment to their communities.
One of the key components of the Common App is the personal statement. This is an essay where students have the opportunity to share their personal stories, experiences, and aspirations. The personal statement is a critical element that helps admissions committees understand the applicant's character and what they might contribute to the campus community.
Recommendations The application also requires letters of recommendation. Students can invite teachers, counselors, or other mentors to submit recommendations on their behalf. These letters provide additional insights into the student's abilities, character, and potential, offering a valuable perspective to the admissions officers.
The Common App provides a section for additional information where students can include any other relevant details that might not fit into the standard sections. This can include explanations of any gaps in education, special circumstances, or other unique aspects of the applicant's background.
Some colleges require additional writing supplements. These are specific to each institution and can include additional essays or short answer questions. This section allows colleges to gather more targeted information about the applicant's fit for their specific programs and community.
Finally, the Common App includes a section for application submission. Here, students review their entire application, pay any necessary application fees, and submit their completed application to their chosen colleges. This section ensures that all parts of the application are properly completed and ready for review.
| Step # | Application Process Details |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin working on your Common App well before the deadlines. Starting early gives you ample time to gather necessary information, request letters of recommendation, and polish your essays. The application process can be time-consuming, so spreading it out over several months will help you manage your workload and reduce stress. The application process can be time-consuming, so spreading it out over several months will help you manage your workload and reduce stress. |
| 2 | Keep track of all your application components using a checklist or spreadsheet. Note deadlines for each college, required documents, and specific essay prompts. This organization will help ensure that you don’t miss any critical elements and can submit a complete application. Note deadlines for each college, required documents, and specific essay prompts. This organization will help ensure that you don’t miss any critical elements and can submit a complete application. |
| 3 | Collect all required documents, such as your high school transcripts, standardized test scores, and a list of your extracurricular activities. Having these documents ready will make it easier to accurately fill out the application and prevent any last-minute scrambling. |
| 4 | Spend significant time developing a strong personal statement. This essay is your chance to showcase your personality, experiences, and aspirations. Be authentic and reflective, and ensure your essay is well-organized and free of grammatical errors. Consider having teachers, mentors, or peers review your essay and provide feedback. |
| 5 | Reach out to teachers, counselors, or other mentors well in advance to request letters of recommendation. Provide them with any necessary information, such as deadlines and specific points you’d like them to highlight. This courtesy allows recommenders ample time to write thoughtful and detailed letters. Provide them with any necessary information, such as deadlines and specific points you’d like them to highlight. This courtesy allows recommenders ample time to write thoughtful and detailed letters. Provide them with any necessary information, such as deadlines and specific points you’d like them to highlight. This courtesy allows recommenders ample time to write thoughtful and detailed letters. |
| 6 | While the Common App allows you to apply to multiple colleges with one application, take the time to customize your responses and essays for each institution. Many colleges have supplemental questions or essays, and tailoring your answers to reflect your interest in and knowledge of each college will strengthen your application. |
| 7 | Before submitting your application, carefully proofread every section to ensure accuracy and completeness. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and any missing information. Consider asking a trusted friend, family member, or teacher to review your application for any mistakes you might have overlooked. A polished, error-free application demonstrates your attention to detail and commitment to excellence. |