Using the Coalition College Application: Any Tips?

I'm planning to apply to some schools that accept the Coalition Application. Has anyone here used it and can offer some advice or tips on how to fill out this application efficiently? I know it's a bit different from the Common App, and I want to make sure I don't miss anything important. Are there any specific challenges I should be aware of?

Just like with other application platforms, the Coalition Application has certain aspects to it that could require careful attention, but it's very doable. Here are some tips:

1. Start Early: The first crucial advice would be to start early. The Coalition Application has a section called the "Locker" where you can save and store documents, projects, or other artifacts throughout high school to potentially add to your application. Starting early allows you to gradually add to this collection.

2. Know the Components: Understanding the components of the Coalition Application is also important. It contains many sections: demographics profile, family, high school, college coursework, grades, tests, activities, a personal statement, and a few others.

3. Dig into Each Section: Each of these sections requires different information. For instance, the family section asks about your parents' education levels and occupations. The high school section requires you to input your current course schedule, course rigor, and AP/IB/etc. scores (if applicable).

4. Coursework Section: If you've taken any college-level courses during high school, you have the opportunity to list them in the college coursework section.

5. Activities Section: In the activities section, you may list up to eight extracurricular activities. Use this space effectively to demonstrate the breadth and depth of your activities.

6. Understand the Coalition Essay: One unique aspect of the Coalition Application is the personal essay. You get to choose from five distinct prompts. Many people find the prompts to be open and flexible, so you can really delve into a narrative that reflects who you are. Like with any college essay, be genuine and focused, ensuring your distinctive voice comes through.

7. Use your Locker: This feature is intended to help you organize your materials for your application and ensure nothing gets lost in the process. While this material doesn't actually get sent to colleges (unless you include it in the application), it can be helpful to prepare and keep track of potential supplemental material like art portfolios, research papers, etc.

8. Double-Check Requirements: While the Coalition Application is accepted by many colleges, make sure to double-check if the colleges you're interested in have additional requirements beyond the standard application.

Remember, it's perfectly normal to find this process challenging as every student does, but with systematic organization, sufficient time, and care, you can effectively present your best self to colleges on the Coalition Application. Good luck!