The Common Application—known simply as the Common App—is one of the most widely used tools in the college admissions process. It allows students to apply to multiple colleges using a single platform, simplifying the process—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy.
Successfully completing the Common App is about more than just filling in forms. It’s about presenting your story with clarity, authenticity, and purpose. Whether you’re a senior preparing to submit applications or a junior getting ahead, here’s how to navigate the platform with confidence.
1. Start Early and Explore the Platform
One of the most common mistakes students make is waiting too long to explore the Common App. Don’t wait until deadlines are near—create your account early and get comfortable with the layout.
Action steps:
- Create a free account at commonapp.org.
- Browse through the dashboard and get familiar with the sections: Profile, Family, Education, Testing, Activities, and Writing.
- Look at the colleges you’re interested in and add them to your list—each one may have different requirements or essays.
2. Tell Your Story in the Personal Essay
The Common App essay is your chance to speak directly to admissions officers—outside of your grades and test scores.
Tips for writing a compelling essay:
- Choose a topic that truly matters to you, not what you think colleges want to hear.
- Focus on depth over breadth: one meaningful moment or experience is better than a summary of your entire life.
- Write in your voice. The most memorable essays sound like real students reflecting on real growth.
- Revise. Then revise again. Ask a counselor or trusted adult to give feedback, but make sure the final version is your own.
3. Make the Activities Section Work for You
The Activities section allows you to list up to 10 extracurriculars—but it’s not about quantity. Admissions officers want to see how you spend your time and what you care about.
How to stand out:
- Prioritize activities where you showed leadership, initiative, or sustained involvement.
- Use clear, action-oriented descriptions. For example, instead of “Volunteered at food bank,” write: “Organized weekly distributions for 150 families, improving efficiency by 20%.”
- Order matters: list your most impactful or time-consuming activities first.
4. Be Thoughtful with Additional Information
The “Additional Information” section is optional, but it can be helpful if you’ve faced obstacles or need to explain something in your application.
Use it to:
- Clarify gaps in your education (e.g., medical leave, school transfers).
- Provide context for a dip in grades or test scores.
- Share more about a unique circumstance that impacted your academic journey.
Keep it concise—no need to write another essay.
5. Customize Supplementals for Each School
Many colleges that use the Common App also require supplemental essays. These are specific to each school and often ask why you’re applying or what programs you’re interested in.
Best practices:
- Don’t reuse a generic answer. Tailor each response to reflect that college’s values, programs, or culture.
- Use specific examples: mention a class, professor, or initiative that caught your eye.
- Connect your academic and personal goals with what the college uniquely offers.
Remember: this is your chance to show you’ve done your homework and are a strong fit.
6. Manage Deadlines and Documents
Each college sets its own application deadline and may require additional materials like test scores, recommendation letters, and portfolios.
Stay on top of things by:
- Creating a spreadsheet or checklist with deadlines and requirements for each school.
- Following up with teachers and counselors early for recommendation letters.
- Double-checking that test scores and transcripts are submitted directly to colleges if required.
7. Proofread Everything Before Submitting
Before you hit “Submit,” go through each section with a careful eye. Typos or inconsistent information can weaken your application.
Final checklist:
- Review all fields for errors.
- Make sure your essays are uploaded properly.
- Confirm that you’ve met each college’s specific requirements (including supplements).
- Preview your application as a PDF to see what admissions officers will see.
The Common App isn’t just a tool—it’s a platform to tell your story. Each section is an opportunity to reflect on who you are, what matters to you, and where you hope to go next.
Give yourself the time and space to complete it with care. And remember: no one expects perfection. They’re looking for a student with potential, perspective, and purpose.
So take a deep breath, ask for help when needed, and trust the journey. Your future is unfolding—one section at a time.
