Last year, nearly 2 1/2 million college applications were submitted using the Common Application. Use of the Common App has streamlined the college application process and simplified applying to multiple colleges that are members of the Common App group. Some of these accept the Common App in lieu of their own application; for others, the Common App is the only way to apply.
The Common App allows users to input biographical and academic data, activities information, and essays and send the same information to as many of the 488 member colleges as desired. It’s a good idea to resist the urge to apply to another college JUST because it’s on the Common App – apply only to colleges that you have researched and in which you are truly interested.
The 2012-13 Common Application has been live online since Aug.1st. Following simple steps, we’ll walk you through the application. Start by gathering up copies of your school transcript and standardized test score reports along with a resume or activity list. Then, visit the Common App website at www.commonapp.org and register onsite for an account. (Be sure to make note of your username and password.) Read through the instructions first, taking special note of browser and pop-up requirements. Next, go to my colleges and select at least one of your colleges so you can begin to complete the application. With the exception of the future plans section (which is customized for each college), you will only need to complete the basic application once. All data inputted will populate the fields of subsequent applications.
Work through each section of the common application, answering all questions carefully. Be sure to save and check for errors or save and proceed before going on to the next page. You may find that you’ll need to check with your parents to answer some of the biographical questions.
The Activities section and the Honors and Awards sections provide little room for explanation. You may want to upload a resume in addition to completing these sections. Be sure the activities listed are grouped by their order of importance to you.
The long essay on the Common App should be written in Word and then uploaded and attached as a document. The activity essay can be cut and pasted from a Word document into the space provided. Be sure to adhere to the word limits given. These two essays should address different characteristics and give the reader a good picture of the person you really are.
About 2/3 of the common app colleges require supplements to the basic application. The supplements are designed to gather additional information and to help the college determine the mutual fit between you and that institution.
Teacher recommendations and school reports can also be submitted on-line or may be mailed directly to each college by the recommender. Official transcripts must be sent by your high school. Request official test scores from the SAT and/or ACT programs and have them sent directly to the colleges on your list by the testing agency.
