Is it necessary to submit a resume to colleges?

Hey, I'm working on my college applications and I was wondering if I should submit a resume along with my applications. What benefits does this have? Is it common for students to do this?

Submitting a resume with your college application is not necessary for most colleges, but it can be helpful in certain situations. The Common Application and other application platforms already have sections where you can fill out your extracurricular activities, achievements, and work experience. These sections are designed to provide a snapshot of your involvements during high school, which should give colleges a good sense of who you are. Thus, submitting a separate resume might be redundant in many cases.

That being said, there are some circumstances where you might want to submit a resume. For instance, if you have an extensive list of accomplishments and experiences that go beyond the character or space limits in the application, a resume can provide a more comprehensive picture of your activities. Additionally, if you have a unique skill or talent that isn't clearly communicated in the standard application sections, a well-structured resume could help to highlight that.

Submitting a resume is not very common, but it is also not unheard of. Some colleges may even encourage you to do so, or specifically request a resume for certain majors or programs. If you do choose to submit a resume, make sure it is formatted professionally and concisely. Keep it to a single page and tailor it to highlight the experiences and skills most relevant to your prospective major or area of interest at each college.