How Do You Submit Application On Common App

Navigating the college application process can feel overwhelming, especially when you're faced with platforms like the Common App. This comprehensive platform aims to simplify the application process, allowing students to apply to multiple colleges with a single, standardized application. However, understanding the intricacies of submitting your application on the Common App is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful experience. This article will walk you through each step, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to submit your application flawlessly.

Introduction

The Common Application, often referred to as the Common App, has become a cornerstone of the college application process for many students. It provides a streamlined way to apply to numerous institutions simultaneously, saving time and effort. But, with its comprehensive nature comes a need for meticulous attention to detail. This article aims to guide you through every stage of the submission process, ensuring you understand each requirement and deadline. From creating your account to paying the application fees, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

Submitting your application on the Common App is more than just filling out forms; it's about presenting yourself in the best possible light to the colleges of your dreams. Understanding the nuances of each section, from your academic history to your personal essay, can make a significant difference in your application's outcome. Let's dive in and demystify the submission process on the Common App.

Getting Started with the Common App

Before you can submit your application, you need to create an account and familiarize yourself with the Common App interface. This initial step is crucial for a smooth application process.

Creating Your Account:

Visit the Common App Website: Go to .
Create an Account: Click on the "Create an Account" button. You'll be prompted to provide your email address, a secure password, and some basic personal information. Ensure you use an email address you check regularly, as this will be the primary means of communication from the colleges you apply to.
Account Type: Specify whether you are a "First-Year Student" or a "Transfer Student." The application requirements may differ based on your selection.
Complete Your Profile: Fill out the required fields accurately. This includes your name, date of birth, address, and other demographic information.

Navigating the Dashboard:

Once your account is created, you'll be directed to the Common App dashboard. This is your central hub for managing your applications.

College Search: Use the "College Search" tab to find the colleges you want 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. Each college may have specific requirements and deadlines, so make sure to review these carefully.
Common App Tab: This section contains the core components of the application, including your profile, family information, education, testing, activities, and personal essay.
College-Specific Questions: After adding colleges to your list, you'll find a "College-Specific" tab where you need to answer questions tailored to each institution.
Financial Aid: The Common App also provides resources and information about financial aid and scholarships.

Completing the Common App Sections

The Common App is divided into several sections, each requiring detailed information about your background, academic achievements, and personal qualities. Let's examine each section in detail.

1. Profile:

This section collects basic biographical and contact information.

Personal Information: Ensure your name, date of birth, and contact information are accurate. Use your legal name as it appears on official documents.
Citizenship: Provide your citizenship status and, if applicable, your visa information.
Common App Fee Waiver: If you qualify for a fee waiver, indicate this in the profile section. You may need to provide supporting documentation to verify your eligibility.

2. Family:

This section requires information about your parents or guardians.

Parent/Guardian Information: Provide details about your parents' education, occupation, and contact information. If your parents are divorced or separated, you may need to provide information about both parents.
Sibling Information: List your siblings, including their ages and education levels.

3. Education:

This section focuses on your academic history.

High School Information: Enter the name, address, and contact information of your high school.
Dates of Attendance: Provide the dates you started and expect to graduate from high school.
GPA and Class Rank: Report your GPA and class rank, if available.
Courses and Grades: You may be asked to list specific courses you have taken, especially in your senior year.
Honors and Awards: List any academic honors, awards, or distinctions you have received.

4. Testing:

This section allows you to report your standardized test scores.

SAT/ACT: Report your SAT and/or ACT scores, if required by the colleges you are applying to. You can either self-report your scores or have them sent directly from the testing agencies.
AP/IB: Report your Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) exam scores.
TOEFL/IELTS: If English is not your native language, you may need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate your English proficiency.

5. Activities:

This section is where you showcase your extracurricular activities, hobbies, and work experience.

Activity List: List up to ten activities in order of importance to you. For each activity, provide the following information:
- Activity Type: Select the category that best describes the activity (e.g., sports, clubs, volunteer work, etc.).
- Position/Leadership Role: Describe your role in the activity.
- Organization Name: Provide the name of the organization or group involved.
- Participation Dates: Indicate the dates you participated in the activity.
- Hours per Week/Weeks per Year: Estimate the amount of time you spent on the activity.
- Description: Write a brief description of the activity and your accomplishments. Use concise and compelling language to highlight your contributions.

6. Writing:

This section includes the Common App essay and any supplemental essays required by individual colleges.

Common App Essay: This is a crucial part of your application. Choose one of the Common App essay prompts and write a thoughtful and well-crafted essay that showcases your personality, experiences, and writing skills.
Supplemental Essays: Many colleges require supplemental essays that address specific questions about why you are interested in their institution or program. Pay close attention to these prompts and tailor your responses to each college.

College-Specific Questions

After completing the Common App sections, you need to address the college-specific questions for each institution you are applying to. These questions vary from college to college and may include:

Academic Interests: Elaborate on your intended major and why you are interested in studying it at that particular college.
Extracurricular Activities: Provide more detail about specific activities or experiences that align with the college's values or programs.
Why This College: Explain why you are interested in attending this specific college, highlighting its unique features, programs, and opportunities.
Additional Information: Some colleges may provide an optional section for you to share any additional information that you feel is relevant to your application.

Recommendations and FERPA Waiver

The Common App requires you to request letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors. Here's how to manage this process:

FERPA Waiver: Before requesting recommendations, you need to complete the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) waiver. This waiver allows colleges to view your recommendations and other confidential information. You have two options:
- Waive Your Right to Access: This means you will not be able to view the recommendations submitted on your behalf. This is generally recommended, as it signals to colleges that you trust your recommenders to provide honest and candid assessments.
- Do Not Waive Your Right to Access: This means you retain the right to view your recommendations. However, colleges may view this as a lack of trust in your recommenders.
Invite Recommenders: Once you have completed the FERPA waiver, you can invite your teachers and counselors to submit recommendations.
- Provide Recommender Information: Enter the name, title, and email address of each recommender.
- Assign Colleges: Assign each recommender to the colleges you want them to submit recommendations to.
- Send Invitation: Send the invitation to your recommenders. They will receive an email with instructions on how to submit their recommendations.
Track Recommendation Status: Monitor the status of your recommendations on the Common App dashboard. If a recommender has not submitted their recommendation by the deadline, send them a gentle reminder.

Reviewing and Submitting Your Application

Before submitting your application, it's essential to review all sections carefully to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Review Each Section: Go through each section of the Common App and college-specific questions. Check for any errors, typos, or omissions.
Preview Your Application: Use the preview feature to see how your application will appear to colleges. This allows you to catch any formatting issues or inconsistencies.
Final Check: Ask a trusted teacher, counselor, or family member to review your application. A fresh pair of eyes can often spot mistakes that you may have missed.
Submit Your Application: Once you are satisfied with your application, click the "Submit" button for each college.
Pay Application Fees: Pay the application fees for each college. You can pay online using a credit card or debit card. If you have a fee waiver, make sure it is applied to your application.
Confirmation: After submitting your application and paying the fees, you will receive a confirmation email from the Common App and each college. Keep these emails for your records.

Managing Deadlines and Requirements

One of the most critical aspects of the Common App is managing deadlines and requirements for each college.

Create a Timeline: Develop a timeline that includes all application deadlines, testing dates, and recommendation requests.
Check College-Specific Requirements: Each college may have unique requirements, such as supplemental essays, portfolios, or auditions. Make sure you are aware of these requirements and plan accordingly.
Submit Early: Aim to submit your application well before the deadline. This allows you to avoid any last-minute technical issues or unforeseen circumstances.
Monitor Your Application Status: Regularly check your Common App dashboard and college portals to monitor the status of your application. Ensure that all required documents, such as transcripts and test scores, have been received.

Addressing Common Issues and Mistakes

Even with careful planning, you may encounter issues or make mistakes during the Common App process. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Technical Issues: If you experience technical issues with the Common App website, contact their support team for assistance.
Missing Documents: If you realize that you have forgotten to include a required document, contact the admissions office of the college and ask how to submit it.
Typos and Errors: If you notice a typo or error in your application after submitting it, contact the admissions office of the college and ask if you can correct it.
Recommender Delays: If a recommender is taking too long to submit their recommendation, send them a polite reminder and offer to provide any assistance they may need.
Fee Waiver Issues: If you have trouble applying for a fee waiver, contact the Common App support team for guidance.

Tips for a Successful Common App Submission

To maximize your chances of success with the Common App, consider the following tips:

Start Early: Begin working on your application well in advance of the deadlines. This gives you ample time to gather information, write essays, and request recommendations.
Be Organized: Keep track of all deadlines, requirements, and login credentials. Use a spreadsheet or calendar to stay organized.
Be Authentic: Write essays that reflect your true personality, experiences, and aspirations. Avoid clichés and generic statements.
Proofread Carefully: Proofread all sections of your application multiple times. Ask others to review your work for errors and clarity.
Seek Feedback: Ask teachers, counselors, and family members to provide feedback on your essays and application materials.
Follow Instructions: Pay close attention to the instructions and requirements for each college. Failure to follow instructions can negatively impact your application.
Be Professional: Communicate with colleges in a professional and respectful manner. This includes email correspondence, phone calls, and campus visits.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is the Common App?

A: The Common App is a standardized online application that allows students to apply to multiple colleges and universities with a single application.

Q: How do I create a Common App account?

A: Go to and click on the "Create an Account" button. Follow the instructions to provide your email address, password, and basic personal information.

Q: How do I add colleges to my Common App?

A: Use the "College Search" tab to find the colleges you want to apply to. Click on the "+" button to add them to your list.

Q: What is the Common App essay?

A: The Common App essay is a personal essay that you submit as part of your application. It allows you to showcase your personality, experiences, and writing skills.

Q: How do I request letters of recommendation?

A: Complete the FERPA waiver, then invite your teachers and counselors to submit recommendations. Provide their names, titles, and email addresses, and assign them to the colleges you want them to submit recommendations to.

Q: What if I need a fee waiver?

A: Indicate that you qualify for a fee waiver in the profile section of the Common App. You may need to provide supporting documentation to verify your eligibility.

Q: Can I edit my application after submitting it?

A: Once you submit your application, you cannot make changes to it. However, you can contact the admissions office of the college and ask if you can correct any errors.

Q: What happens after I submit my application?

A: You will receive a confirmation email from the Common App and each college. Monitor your application status on the Common App dashboard and college portals to ensure that all required documents have been received.

Conclusion

Submitting your application on the Common App can seem daunting, but by following these detailed steps and tips, you can navigate the process with confidence. Remember to start early, stay organized, and pay close attention to deadlines and requirements. The key to a successful application is to present yourself authentically and showcase your unique qualities, experiences, and aspirations.

Taking the time to complete each section of the Common App thoughtfully and carefully can significantly improve your chances of getting accepted into your dream colleges. Good luck with your application journey!

How do you feel about the Common App now? Are you ready to tackle the application process with newfound confidence?