Hey guys, I'm getting close to completing my applications on the Common App. When I'm ready to submit, what should I double-check and are there any last-minute things I should keep in mind?
Hi there! It's always good to be mindful of last-minute checks before submitting your Common App. Here's a list of things to double-check before hitting submit:
1. Review your personal information: Double-check your personal details such as name, address, high school, and Social Security number, if applicable. Make sure there are no typos or mistakes, as they can cause issues later on in the process.
2. Thoroughly proofread your essays: Take one last read through your personal statement and any supplemental essays to ensure there are no grammar, syntax, or spelling errors. Consider asking a trusted person (parent, teacher, or friend) for their feedback as well.
3. Verify your activities list: Confirm that your extracurricular activities are in the right order of importance (most significant at the top) and that they accurately convey your involvement, including hours per week and weeks per year.
4. Double-check your test scores: If you're submitting test scores, make sure that the scores reported on the Common App match the ones you're sending officially through the testing agency. Also, don't forget to self-report any AP scores, if necessary.
5. Review your transcript: Ensure you've entered the correct courses and grades, especially for your senior year schedule. Sync your transcript with the courses section to minimize discrepancies.
6. Letters of recommendation: Check with your recommenders to confirm that all required recommendation letters are ready to be submitted.
7. Confirm application deadlines and requirements: Make sure you've got the accurate deadline dates for each college on your list and double-check their specific requirements, such as additional essays, test scores, or interviews. Some schools may also require additional supplemental materials, so make sure you're aware of all relevant deadlines for each of your schools.
8. Preview your application: Go through the final PDF preview of your application to ensure everything looks neat and well-formatted. Pay attention to any hidden characters or formatting issues that may arise from pasting essays into the portal.
9. Financial aid forms: If you haven't already, complete the FAFSA or CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE for the schools you're applying to, and verify if they require any additional financial aid forms.
10. Payment: Finally, be ready to pay the respective application fees for each college (unless you have a fee waiver) when submitting your application.
Once you've gone through these checks, you'll be in a good position to confidently submit your Common App. Best of luck with your applications!
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