I'm a high school junior, totally new to this app and feeling a tad overwhelmed. How exactly do I use the Common App to apply to colleges? Can someone break down the basics for me in a super simple way? I just want to ensure I'm doing everything right and not missing any critical parts of the application process.
Hey there, it's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed when you're just starting out with the Common App—it's a big step towards your college journey, and I'm here to guide you through the basics. First, you'll need to create an account on the Common App website, which will be your hub for the college application process.
Once you're logged in, the 'Dashboard' tab will be your go-to for keeping track of different colleges and their application statuses. Under the 'My Colleges' tab, you can search for and add the schools you're interested in. Each school may have different requirements, so make sure to check each college's section for specific instructions or supplemental essays.
The 'Common App' tab contains the bulk of your application. You’ll fill out your personal information, educational history, and extracurricular activities here. This info gets shared with all the colleges you apply to. Speaking of extracurriculars, focus on the ones you've devoted the most time to and are most passionate about—quality over quantity is key here.
Critical parts not to miss are the personal essay and recommendation letters. For the essay, choose a prompt that resonates with you and allows you to share an authentic and unique story. As for recommendations, ask teachers who know you well, and give them plenty of time before deadlines!
Finally, you'll have to keep track of each college's specific deadline and submit your application accordingly. And don't forget, before the final submission, proofread your application or have someone else review it to catch any possible errors.
If you ever feel stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out to your school's guidance counselor or use the resources provided by the Common App itself. You've got this!
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