Applying to colleges can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, the common application allows students to apply to multiple colleges with one application. This guide provides a detailed process on navigating the common application and get into your dream college.
What Is The Common App? Being the most popular application program in the U.S, the common application has over 900 schools and universities for students to apply from.
A Five Step Process To Guide You Through The Common App 1. Creating Your Account Applications open in August but you can create free account by going onto CommonApp.org anytime. Click create an account and select “First Year Student”. You’ll be prompted to enter your basic details and contact information. It’s recommended you create a separate email address, or use one that you check often to keep track of notifications when registering for the Common App.
2. Add Colleges to Your Application Once your account has been created, you can add colleges to your application under the “College Search” tab. Your “Dashboard” tab will show the status of each college application and deadlines.
3. Common App: Fill Out Your Profile Under the “Common App” tab you start by filling out your basic details and demographics.
Make sure you have the following materials prepared to fill out this section:
Family and Household Information List of Extracurriculars School report & Transcripts Standardised Test Scores (SAT, IELTS TOEFL) To submit your application, some colleges charge an application fee of around $50 to $80. However, you may be eligible for a fee waiver if you qualify within the requirements.
Use the Additional Information section to briefly explain any extenuating circumstances, conflicts, or special classes. Keep your explanations short and concise.
4. Writing The Perfect Common App Essay The “Common App” tab is also where students submit their essay. Writing the Common App essay can be challenging, with many students looking for strategies to stand out. The prompts often relate to academic challenges, beliefs, accomplishments, and other personal stories. It’s essential to "show, don't tell" by telling stories of learning and growth, rather than merely stating facts.
Students may experience writer's block or struggle to connect with the prompts initially. To overcome this, planning your essay on a separate document can help generate ideas and structure your thoughts.
Some colleges may require supplemental essays, so carefully read each prompt and tailor your responses.
Recognising that the Common App essay can cause uncertainty, DecidEd offers a free essay review service available anytime to help you refine your work. You can also take a look at this quick look How to Write a Winning College Admissions Essay to help you write your perfect essay.
5. Adding Supplementals & Recommendations Under the “My Colleges” tab, any supplemental questions will be shown for each college you have applied to.
Next, you need to add your recommendations to the Common App. Begin by completing the FERPA Release Authorisation, which gives your high school permission to send your information to the colleges you’re applying to. Once this step is completed, you can invite your recommenders.
Ideally, ask teachers from your junior year who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities and personal qualities. You can use a brag sheet to help your recommenders highlight your strengths and achievements.
Lastly, you’ll be able to review your application and make some last minute changes if needed. Once you pay the fees or have it waived, you’ll be able to sign and submit your application.
Which Colleges Should I Apply To? While the allure of the prestigious Ivy League colleges may tempt you into adding them to your application, this strategy is unwise. A better strategy to follow would be to pick a handful of schools from the following three categories:
What are Safety Schools? This category consists of schools where your GPA and test scores exceeds the requirement and you’re likely to be accepted. Furthermore, it wise to ensure these colleges are well within budget and have a favourable location.
What are Target Schools? Target schools align with your expectations and are a good fit academically and financially. Your GPA and Test scores should be comparable to the average of the most recently accepted class.
What are Reach Schools? Reach schools are colleges that are you may not meet the criteria for academically or financially. Usually they have low acceptance rates and high GPA or test score requirements. College application decisions can always be a surprise and expensive schools could provide a financial aid package that aligns with your requirements; Therefore, it is important you take this chance to apply for reach schools.
Ensure you have done appropriate research on the cost, admissions requirements, location, and student body before deciding which colleges to apply to.
What are the Different Types of College Decisions? What is an Early Decision? Early Decision is a binding application process. If you apply and are accepted, you must attend that college and withdraw all other applications. This option is ideal if you have a clear first-choice school and are confident in your decision.
What is Early Action? Early Action is a non-binding process, allowing you to apply early and receive an admission decision well before the regular decision deadline. You can apply to other colleges and compare offers before making a final decision.
What is Restrictive Early Action? Also known as Single-Choice Early Action, it’s a non-binding option that restricts you from applying early to other schools.
What is Deferred Admission? Deferred Admission occurs when a college postpones its decision on your application, usually moving it to the Regular Decision pool. This can happen with Early Decision or Early Action applications. A deferral means the college wants more time to review your application in the context of the regular applicant pool.
What is Regular Decision? Regular Decision is the standard application process, with deadlines typically in January or February. Decisions are usually announced in March or April. This option provides more time to complete your application and consider your options.
What is the Waitlist? Being placed on a waitlist means you might be offered admission if space becomes available after the initial round of acceptances.
In Conclusion Navigating the Common App can seem daunting, but with a structured approach, it becomes manageable. Start by creating your account and gathering necessary materials early. Carefully select colleges that fit your goals and needs, and craft a compelling Common App essay that showcases your unique story. Remember to complete all sections, including supplemental essays and recommendations, with attention to detail. Researching and categorising your potential colleges into safety, target, and reach schools will help you apply strategically. Understanding the different types of college decisions ensures you make informed choices throughout the process.
Give yourself ample time to fill out the application and remember to check your dashboard regularly for due dates. Complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile for schools that require them. Conduct thorough research, meet all deadlines, and apply for scholarships. Stay on top of financial aid portal due dates to ensure you receive the necessary funding. With preparation and perseverance, the Common App can be a powerful tool to help you get into your dream college.
Frequently Asked Questions Why Should I use the Common App? The common app streamlines the application process, saving time. Additionally, it’s easy to keep track of deadlines and maintain a uniform application.
Do all Universities use the Common App? Most universities in the United States use the Common App. However, some universities such as MIT have their own application portals.
How Do I Add Colleges to my Application? Once you have created your account, you'll have access to the Common App dashboard. The first step is usually the college search. With over 900 colleges to choose from, you can find and add schools to your list. You can add or remove colleges at any time, and it's normal for your list to change throughout the process.
