How Do You Invite Teachers On Common App

Inviting teachers to submit letters of recommendation through the Common App is a crucial step in the college application process. These recommendations provide colleges with valuable insights into your character, academic abilities, and potential for success. A strong letter of recommendation can significantly enhance your application, showcasing qualities that transcripts and test scores might not fully capture. Therefore, understanding how to navigate the Common App's recommendation system effectively is essential for a smooth and successful application journey.

The Common App streamlines the process of requesting and receiving letters of recommendation. It allows you to invite teachers and counselors directly through the application platform, track their progress, and ensure that these important documents are submitted on time. By understanding the step-by-step instructions and best practices, you can confidently manage this aspect of your application and secure compelling recommendations that strengthen your candidacy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Inviting Teachers on Common App

1. Creating Your Common App Account

   • Navigate to the Common App Website: Start by visiting the official Common App website.
   • Create an Account: Click on the "Create an Account" button. Fill in the required information, including your name, email address, and a secure password. Ensure that the email address you use is one you check regularly, as this is where you'll receive important updates and notifications regarding your application.
   • Complete Your Profile: After creating your account, you'll be prompted to fill out your profile. This includes sections such as personal information, contact details, citizenship, and family information. Complete each section accurately and thoroughly, as this information is crucial for the colleges to understand your background.

2. Adding Colleges to Your List

   • College Search: Use the "College Search" tab to find the colleges you plan to apply to. You can search by name, location, or other criteria.
   • Adding Colleges: Once you find a college, click on the "+" button to add it to your list. Make sure to double-check that you're adding the correct college, as some institutions may have similar names.
   • Reviewing College Requirements: After adding colleges, review their specific requirements and deadlines. Each college may have different requirements for essays, recommendations, and standardized test scores. Pay close attention to these details to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria.

3. Completing the Education Section

   • Access the Education Section: Navigate to the "Education" section of the Common App.
   • High School Information: Enter the name and location of your high school. Include the dates you attended or will attend, and your expected graduation date.
   • Coursework and Grades: Some colleges may require you to list your high school courses and grades. If this is the case, accurately enter the information as it appears on your transcript.
   • GPA and Class Rank: Provide your GPA and class rank, if available. If your school doesn't provide class rank, indicate this in the appropriate field.

4. Inviting Teachers for Recommendations

   • Navigate to the "Recommenders and FERPA" Section: This section is usually found within the "My Colleges" tab, under each college's specific requirements.

   • FERPA Waiver: Read the information about the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This act gives you the right to access your recommendation letters. You have the option to waive this right, which many colleges prefer, as it signals to the recommender that you trust them to provide an honest assessment. Make your selection and provide your signature.

   • Invite Recommenders: Click on the "Invite Recommender" button. You will need to provide the following information for each teacher:

     • First Name and Last Name: Enter the teacher's full name.
     • Email Address: Use the teacher's school email address. Avoid using personal email addresses, as this can appear unprofessional.
     • Subject Taught: Indicate the subject that the teacher taught you (e.g., English, Math, History).
     • Relationship to You: Specify your relationship to the teacher (e.g., "Teacher").

   • Personalized Message (Optional but Recommended): Include a brief, personalized message to the teacher. This is an opportunity to express your gratitude and provide context for your request. You might mention specific projects or experiences you shared in their class that you believe highlight your strengths. For example:

     "Dear Mr./Ms. [Teacher's Last Name],

     I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation from you for my college applications. I truly enjoyed your [Subject] class during my [Grade Level] year, and I believe you have a strong understanding of my academic abilities and potential.

     I especially valued the [Specific Project or Activity] we worked on, as it helped me develop my [Specific Skill]. I am applying to colleges such as [College Name] and [College Name], where I hope to study [Intended Major].

     I have already added you as a recommender on the Common App and waived my right to access the letter. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me. Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

     Sincerely,

     [Your Name]"

   • Send Invitation: After completing the information and writing your message, click "Send Invitation." The teacher will receive an email from the Common App with instructions on how to submit their recommendation.

5. Tracking and Managing Recommendations

   • Monitor Submission Status: The Common App allows you to track the status of your recommendation requests. You can see whether the teacher has accepted your invitation, started the recommendation, or submitted it.
   • Send Reminders: If a teacher hasn't submitted their recommendation by the deadline, you can send a polite reminder through the Common App.
   • Adding or Removing Recommenders: If necessary, you can add or remove recommenders. However, it's best to communicate any changes with the teachers beforehand to avoid confusion or inconvenience.

Best Practices for Requesting Recommendations

1. Choose the Right Teachers

   • Select Teachers Who Know You Well: Choose teachers who have a good understanding of your abilities, character, and potential. These teachers should be able to provide specific examples and anecdotes that illustrate your strengths.
   • Consider Teachers from Relevant Subjects: If you have a specific major in mind, consider asking teachers from related subjects. For example, if you plan to study engineering, a recommendation from your math or science teacher can be particularly valuable.
   • Think About Teachers Who Have Seen Your Growth: Teachers who have witnessed your progress and development over time can provide a compelling narrative of your academic journey.

2. Ask Early

   • Give Teachers Plenty of Notice: Request recommendations at least a month or two before the application deadline. Teachers are often busy, and providing them with ample time allows them to write thoughtful and comprehensive letters.
   • Be Mindful of Deadlines: Keep track of application deadlines and communicate these dates clearly to your recommenders.

3. Provide Necessary Information

   • Share Your Resume or Activity List: Provide your teachers with a resume or a list of your extracurricular activities, awards, and accomplishments. This helps them gain a broader understanding of your background and achievements.
   • Explain Your Goals and Aspirations: Share your college goals, intended major, and career aspirations with your recommenders. This allows them to tailor their letters to highlight the qualities and experiences that align with your future plans.
   • Provide a Writing Sample (Optional): If you're comfortable doing so, you can provide a writing sample to your recommenders. This can give them a sense of your writing style and abilities.

4. Be Respectful and Gracious

   • Ask in Person (If Possible): Whenever possible, ask teachers for recommendations in person. This shows that you value their opinion and are serious about your request.
   • Express Your Gratitude: Always thank your recommenders for their time and effort. A handwritten thank-you note can go a long way in showing your appreciation.
   • Keep Them Updated: Let your recommenders know the outcome of your college applications. Sharing your successes with them can be a rewarding experience for both of you.

Addressing Common Issues

1. Teacher Didn't Receive the Invitation

   • Check the Email Address: Ensure that you entered the correct email address for the teacher.
   • Resend the Invitation: You can resend the invitation through the Common App.
   • Contact the Teacher Directly: If the teacher still doesn't receive the invitation, contact them directly to confirm their email address and ask them to check their spam folder.

2. Teacher Is Unable to Submit the Recommendation

   • Check the Common App Website: Ensure that the Common App website is functioning properly. Sometimes technical issues can prevent teachers from submitting recommendations.
   • Contact Common App Support: If the problem persists, contact Common App support for assistance.
   • Provide Alternative Submission Options (If Allowed): Some colleges may allow teachers to submit recommendations through alternative methods, such as email or mail. Check with the college to see if this is an option.

3. Teacher Is Unresponsive

   • Send a Polite Reminder: Send a polite reminder to the teacher, reiterating the importance of the recommendation and the upcoming deadline.
   • Contact the Teacher's Department Head: If the teacher remains unresponsive, consider contacting their department head or guidance counselor for assistance.
   • Find an Alternative Recommender: If all else fails, you may need to find an alternative recommender. Communicate this change to the colleges and explain the situation.

The Importance of Strong Recommendations

Letters of recommendation provide colleges with a unique perspective on your character, academic abilities, and potential for success. They complement your transcripts, test scores, and essays, offering insights that these documents might not fully capture. A strong letter of recommendation can highlight your strengths, showcase your personality, and demonstrate your fit for the college.

• Character and Personal Qualities: Recommendations can speak to your character traits, such as leadership, teamwork, resilience, and empathy. These qualities are highly valued by colleges, as they indicate your potential to contribute to the campus community.
• Academic Abilities: Teachers can provide specific examples of your academic skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. They can also highlight your passion for learning and your ability to excel in challenging subjects.
• Potential for Success: Recommenders can assess your potential for success in college and beyond. They can speak to your work ethic, motivation, and ability to overcome challenges.

Common App Updates and Changes

The Common App undergoes periodic updates and changes to improve the application process. Stay informed about these updates by visiting the Common App website and reading the latest announcements. Some recent changes include:

• Expanded Essay Prompts: The Common App essay prompts are occasionally updated to provide students with more flexibility and options.
• Additional Information Section: The "Additional Information" section allows students to provide context for any unique circumstances or challenges they have faced.
• Improved Mobile Experience: The Common App has been optimized for mobile devices, making it easier for students to complete their applications on the go.

Ethical Considerations

It is essential to approach the recommendation process with integrity and respect. Avoid the following unethical practices:

• Writing Your Own Recommendation: It is unethical to write your own recommendation and ask a teacher to sign it. Colleges expect recommendations to be genuine and authentic reflections of your abilities.
• Pressuring Teachers: Avoid pressuring teachers to write a recommendation if they are uncomfortable doing so. Respect their decision and find an alternative recommender.
• Offering Incentives: Do not offer teachers any incentives, such as gifts or favors, in exchange for a recommendation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: How many recommendations do I need?
  • A: The number of recommendations required varies by college. Check each college's specific requirements on the Common App website.
• Q: Can I use the same recommendation for all colleges?
  • A: Yes, you can assign the same recommendation to multiple colleges. However, make sure that the recommendation is general enough to apply to all the colleges on your list.
• Q: What if a teacher leaves their job before submitting the recommendation?
  • A: Contact the Common App support team or the college's admissions office for guidance. They may have alternative procedures in place.
• Q: Can I see the recommendation letters after they are submitted?
  • A: If you waived your right to access the letters under FERPA, you will not be able to see them. If you did not waive your right, you can request to see the letters after they are submitted.
• Q: What should I do if I have more than the maximum number of recommenders allowed?
  • A: Prioritize the recommenders who know you best and can provide the most compelling insights into your abilities.

Conclusion

Effectively inviting teachers on the Common App is a critical step in presenting a comprehensive and compelling college application. By following the step-by-step instructions, adhering to best practices, and addressing common issues proactively, you can secure strong letters of recommendation that highlight your strengths and enhance your candidacy. Remember to choose the right teachers, ask early, provide necessary information, and express your gratitude. The recommendation process, when managed thoughtfully, can significantly contribute to your success in the college application journey.

How do you plan to approach your teachers for recommendations, and what qualities do you hope they will highlight in their letters?