A Step-by-Step Guide to The Common App

Completing the Common Application (Common App) for college admissions involves several steps. This is a general guide, and it's essential to check the Common App website for the most up-to-date instructions and deadlines. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Create an Account:

• Visit the Common App website (www.commonapp.org) and create an account. Make sure to use an appropriate email address (not a school address) that you check regularly.

2. Add Colleges:

• Log in to your Common App account and click on the "College Search" tab.

• Search for the colleges you want to apply to and add them to your list. You can apply to multiple colleges through a single Common App account.

• This list can be modified throughout the process by adding or deleting schools.

3. Complete the Profile:

• Fill out your profile information, including personal details, education, and family background.

4. Fill Out the Application Sections:

• Each college will have its specific requirements and essay prompts. However, many sections are common to all applications. These typically include:

  • Personal Information: Your name, address, and other contact details.

  • Family: Information about your parents and siblings.

  • Education: List your high school, courses, and grades.

  • Testing: If required, report your standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, etc.).

  • Activities: List your extracurricular activities, including leadership roles and honors.

  • Writing: Complete any required essays or personal statements. Each college may have different prompts, so read them carefully and tailor your responses accordingly.

5. Request and Submit Letters of Recommendation:

• If required by the colleges (this is very common), request letters of recommendation from teachers or other individuals who can provide strong endorsements. You'll need to enter your recommenders' information in the Common App and they will be sent an email with instructions on how to submit their letters.

• ***Tip: Let these recommenders know in advance that you will be listing them on your Common App as a recommender and provide them with personal information such as your transcript, resume, and/or "Brag Sheet."

6. Pay Application Fees:

• Pay the application fees for each college, unless you qualify for fee waivers. Some colleges may have no application fees, while others may have varying fees.

7. Review and Edit:

• Carefully review all sections of your application for accuracy and completeness. You can make changes and edits at any time before submitting.

8. Submit the Application:

• Once you've reviewed and completed all sections, submit your application to each college.

• Be mindful of application deadlines, as they can vary by institution.

• *** Tip: You do not need to submit your application to all colleges at the same time. You may choose to apple ED or EA for some and not others, etc.

9. Track Your Application:

• After submission, you can track the status of your application on the Common App portal. This allows you to see if your materials (transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation) have been received and if the application is complete.

• Individual Universities and Colleges will most likely send you an email soon after submission to access their own portal. Do this as soon as you receive the email to be sure that you have provided all the necessary information that they have requested.

10. Supplemental Materials:

• Some colleges may require additional documents, such as a portfolio or additional essays. Be sure to submit these materials by the specified deadlines.

11. Follow Up:

• Check your email and the college admission portals regularly for updates, interview invitations, and other communication from the colleges.

• If you have any questions, reach out to the college's admissions department. You can often find specific email addresses for admissions counselors specific to your area, program, etc.

Remember to stay organized, keep track of deadlines, and give yourself plenty of time to complete your Common App. Different colleges may have different requirements, so be sure to tailor each application to the specific school's expectations. Good luck with your college applications!