The college application process can seem daunting, especially when applying to multiple schools. Fortunately, the Common Application simplifies the process by allowing you to use one application to apply to over 700 colleges and universities in the United States.
Step 1: Creating an Account
Creating an account on the Common Application website is easy and ensures that you’ll have access to the application itself. The first time you create your username and password, you’ll need to confirm that you’ve entered a valid email address and chosen a security question, which helps protect the Common App system from unauthorized access. Once this information has been verified, your application will be available to work on and complete.
Step 2: Gathering Materials
One of the most important steps in applying to college is gathering the necessary materials. Before you begin filling out the Common Application, it’s important to gather transcripts, test scores, recommendation letters and any other documents required by your dream schools. Make a list of college admissions requirements and deadlines so that you can stay organized and avoid missing any important deadlines.
Step 3: Completing the Common Application
The Common Application includes several sections, such as personal information, academic history, extracurricular activities, honors and awards, and additional information. It’s important to carefully read the instructions for each section and provide all the required information.
You may also be asked to answer short-answer questions or prompts, so be prepared to write a few short essays. When answering these questions, it’s important to be honest and thorough, as the admissions committee will use this information to evaluate your application. Before submitting your application, be sure to proofread your responses for spelling, grammar, and other errors.
Step 4: Writing the Personal Essay
The essay is a crucial part of your application, as it provides an opportunity to showcase your personality and values. Your personal essay should be around 650 words in length and focus on topics that are meaningful and important to you. Avoid choosing topics that are too broad or overused, as this can make your essay appear unoriginal.
Step 5: Submitting Your Application
When you’re ready to submit your application, verify that all sections are complete and that the essay is fully written. Review it carefully to ensure everything is accurate, and submit it before the deadline so that you don’t miss out on any opportunities that could be available to you only by applying early.
Step 6: Follow Up
After submitting your Common Application, it’s important to follow up with the schools you’ve applied to. This will help ensure that all of your materials have been received and allow you to check on the status of your application. You can usually do this by contacting the admissions office or checking online.
In conclusion, the Common Application is an excellent tool for streamlining the process of applying to multiple colleges and universities. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of being accepted to your dream school and setting yourself up for success in college and beyond. You can also find more details about the application process in our College Admissions Guide.
Remember to stay organized, be honest and thorough in your responses, and submit your application before the deadline. Good luck!