How To Submit Common App Application

Applying to college can feel like climbing a mountain, and the Common App is often the first base camp. This comprehensive application, accepted by over 900 colleges and universities, streamlines the process, allowing you to submit one application to multiple schools. But mastering the Common App requires a strategic approach. This article will guide you through every step of the Common App submission process, ensuring your application stands out.

Crafting Your Narrative: The Foundation of Your Application

Before even logging into the Common App, the real work begins. The application is not just a form to be filled out; it's your chance to tell your story, showcase your accomplishments, and demonstrate why you're a good fit for each college on your list.

• Self-Reflection is Key: Take time to reflect on your academic journey, extracurricular activities, personal experiences, and values. What are you passionate about? What challenges have you overcome? What impact have you made on your community? Answering these questions will help you identify the key themes and experiences you want to highlight in your application.
• Research Your Colleges: Don't treat all colleges the same. Each institution has a unique mission, values, and academic focus. Research each college on your list to understand what they are looking for in their applicants. Tailor your application to demonstrate your interest in that specific college and how you align with their community.
• Brainstorm Essay Topics: The Common App essay is your opportunity to showcase your writing skills and personality. Brainstorm potential topics that allow you to tell a compelling story, reveal your character, and demonstrate your growth as a person. Choose a topic that is meaningful to you and allows you to express your authentic self.

Navigating the Common App Platform: A Step-by-Step Guide

With your narrative in mind, let's dive into the Common App platform.

• Creating Your Account: Visit the Common App website () and create an account. Use a professional email address that you check regularly. Choose a strong password and keep your login information safe.
• The Profile Section: This section gathers basic information about you, including your demographics, family background, academic history, and extracurricular activities. Complete each section accurately and thoroughly.
• Family: Provide information about your parents or legal guardians, including their education and occupation.
• Education: List all high schools you have attended, your current courses, and your GPA. You will also need to request a transcript from your high school counselor.
• Testing: Report your scores from standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Keep in mind that many colleges are now test-optional, so research each college's testing policy before submitting your scores.
• Activities: This section is where you showcase your extracurricular activities, work experience, and volunteer work. List your activities in order of importance and provide a brief description of your role and accomplishments. Use strong action verbs and quantify your impact whenever possible.
• Writing Section: This section includes the Common App essay and any supplemental essays required by individual colleges.
• The Common App Essay: Choose one of the Common App essay prompts and craft a compelling essay that showcases your personality, values, and writing skills. Your essay should be well-organized, grammatically correct, and free of errors. Seek feedback from teachers, counselors, and mentors before submitting your final version.
• Supplemental Essays: Many colleges require supplemental essays that address specific topics related to their institution. These essays provide an opportunity to demonstrate your interest in the college and explain why you are a good fit for their community. Research each college's supplemental essay prompts and tailor your responses accordingly.

Choosing Your Colleges: Building Your College List

Selecting the right colleges is a crucial step in the application process. Consider your academic interests, career goals, financial resources, and personal preferences when building your college list.

• Reach, Target, and Safety Schools: Diversify your college list by including a mix of reach, target, and safety schools.
  • Reach schools are colleges where your academic credentials fall below the average for admitted students.
  • Target schools are colleges where your academic credentials align with the average for admitted students.
  • Safety schools are colleges where your academic credentials exceed the average for admitted students.
• Adding Colleges to Your List: Once you have created your college list, add each college to your Common App account. Be sure to review each college's application requirements, deadlines, and supplemental essay prompts.

Requesting Recommendations: Building Your Support Network

Recommendations from teachers and counselors can significantly strengthen your application. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, character, and potential.

• Requesting Recommendations: Request recommendations from your teachers and counselor through the Common App platform. Provide them with a resume, a list of your accomplishments, and a brief description of your goals. Give them plenty of time to write their recommendations, and thank them for their support.
• FERPA Waiver: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) gives you the right to access your education records, including your letters of recommendation. However, colleges often prefer that you waive your right to access these letters, as it signals that you trust your recommenders to provide honest and unbiased evaluations.

Reviewing and Submitting Your Application: The Final Steps

Before submitting your application, review every section carefully to ensure accuracy and completeness.

• Proofread Everything: Proofread your application multiple times for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Ask a trusted friend or family member to review your application as well.
• Review College-Specific Requirements: Double-check each college's application requirements, deadlines, and supplemental essay prompts. Make sure you have submitted all required materials and that your application is tailored to each college.
• Submitting Your Application: Once you are satisfied with your application, submit it through the Common App platform. Be sure to pay the application fee or request a fee waiver if you are eligible.
• Confirmation and Tracking: After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email from the Common App. You can track the status of your application through your Common App account.

Common Mistakes to Avoid: Steer Clear of These Pitfalls

Navigating the Common App can be tricky, so be aware of these common mistakes:

• Procrastination: Start early! Don't wait until the last minute to complete your application. Give yourself plenty of time to research colleges, write essays, and request recommendations.
• Generic Essays: Avoid writing generic essays that could apply to any college. Tailor your essays to each college on your list to demonstrate your interest and fit.
• Typos and Grammatical Errors: Proofread your application carefully for typos and grammatical errors. These mistakes can make you look careless and unprofessional.
• Exaggeration or Dishonesty: Be honest and authentic in your application. Don't exaggerate your accomplishments or try to be someone you're not.
• Ignoring Deadlines: Pay close attention to application deadlines and submit your application on time. Late applications may not be considered.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Strategies for Success

To truly stand out in the competitive college admissions landscape, consider these advanced strategies:

• Demonstrate Interest: Show colleges that you are genuinely interested in attending their institution. Visit the campus, attend virtual events, and connect with current students and faculty.
• Highlight Your Unique Qualities: What makes you stand out from other applicants? Highlight your unique talents, experiences, and perspectives in your application.
• Tell a Story: Use your essays to tell a compelling story that reveals your character, values, and goals.
• Seek Feedback: Ask teachers, counselors, and mentors to provide feedback on your application. Their insights can help you identify areas for improvement.
• Be Authentic: Be yourself! Let your personality and passion shine through in your application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: What is the Common App fee?
  • A: The Common App fee is $75 per college. However, fee waivers are available for students who demonstrate financial need.
• Q: Can I submit my SAT/ACT scores after the application deadline?
  • A: It depends on the college's policy. Check each college's website for specific instructions.
• Q: How many colleges can I apply to through the Common App?
  • A: You can apply to as many colleges as you want through the Common App.
• Q: What if I need to make changes to my application after I submit it?
  • A: You cannot make changes to your application after you submit it. However, you can contact the college directly to provide updates or corrections.
• Q: What if my recommender doesn't submit their letter on time?
  • A: Contact your recommender and remind them of the deadline. You can also ask the college for an extension.

Conclusion: Embark on Your College Journey with Confidence

Submitting your Common App application is a significant milestone in your college journey. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can navigate the process with confidence and create an application that showcases your strengths and potential. Remember to start early, be organized, and be authentic. The Common App is your platform to tell your story, highlight your accomplishments, and demonstrate why you deserve a spot at your dream colleges.

What aspects of the Common App application process do you find most challenging? Are you ready to take the first step and begin crafting your college application narrative?