Should I Apply to Common App Schools?

Is it a good idea to target mainly schools that accept the Common App? I'm trying to streamline my application process a bit and would love any advice on using this platform effectively.

Absolutely, applying to schools through the Common Application can indeed streamline your college application process. The benefit of the Common App is that it allows you to fill out one application that can be sent to multiple colleges, saving you time in the long run. You only have to write one personal statement, enter your extracurricular activities and awards once, and request transcripts and recommendation letters once.

But while the Common Application can make the process of applying to multiple colleges convenient, it shouldn't be the only factor when selecting the schools you apply to. While many selective colleges accept the Common App, there are also many colleges that do not.

Here's a tip to use Common App effectively: Many schools on the Common App do not just require the general components of the application, they also have school-specific questions and supplemental essays. When you research schools, check out what their individual requirements are on their application supplements. This will allow you to plan out your time and prioritize which essays you need to work on first.

Also, remember some public universities have separate systems, such as the University of California system and the California State system. These are fabulous schools but don't use the Common App. So, I wouldn't recommend ruling them out just because they aren't on Common App.

In spite of the convenience of the Common Application, the suitability of a school to your academic and career goals, as well as its cultural fit, financial affordability, location, size, etc., also need to be taken into account.

So, while it's a good idea to take advantage of the convenience of the Common App, don't let it dictate your college search. The best advice is always to find the colleges that align with your academic, financial, and personal aspirations, whether they use the Common App or not. Remember, the goal is to get into the right school for you.