How does the Common App work for college applications?

Hi everyone! I've heard about the Common App, and I'm wondering how it works. Do most colleges accept it? Are there any advantages or disadvantages of using the Common App as opposed to individual college applications? Thanks for your insights!

Hello! Great question. The Common Application (Common App) is an online platform that simplifies the college application process by allowing you to submit one application to multiple colleges. Over 900 colleges and universities in the U.S. accept the Common App, including many top-tier institutions.

Using the Common App has several advantages:

1. Streamlined process: The Common App saves you time and effort by allowing you to complete one application and use it for multiple schools, rather than fill out separate applications for each college.

2. Consistency: Since the Common App asks for similar information from all applicants, it ensures a level of consistency in applications that allows colleges to compare applicants more easily.

3. Organization: The Common App keeps track of all your submitted applications, deadlines, and required materials in one place, which can make it easier for you to stay organized throughout the application process.

However, there are a few disadvantages:

1. Not all schools accept it: While many colleges do accept the Common App, some do not, so you may still need to fill out separate applications for schools that don't use it. Check each college's specific application requirements to confirm whether they accept the Common App or not.

2. Supplemental requirements: Some colleges that accept the Common App might also require additional supplemental materials, such as essays, letters of recommendation, or samples of work. Taking care of these other elements can make the process a bit more time-consuming.

3. Fees: While using the Common App itself is free, you will need to pay an application fee for each college you apply to through the platform. These fees can range from around $30 to $90 per application, which can quickly add up if you're applying to several schools.

Overall, the Common App simplifies and streamlines the college application process for many students. It is particularly useful if the majority of the schools on your list accept it. Always check the specific application requirements for each college, though, and weigh the pros and cons to determine if the Common App is the best choice for your college applications. Good luck!