The Common App opens the door to college applications for millions of students each year. It's a powerful tool that lets you apply to many schools at once. The Common App typically opens on August 1 each year for the next application cycle. This date marks the start of a new season for high school seniors and transfer students.
Getting ready for college applications can feel scary. The Common App makes it easier. It lets you fill out one main form for lots of schools. This saves time and stress. You can start working on your application as soon as it opens.
Knowing when the Common App opens helps you plan ahead. You can gather your info and think about your essay before August 1. This gives you more time to make your application great. It's smart to start early and give yourself plenty of time to work on each part.
Key Takeaways
- The Common App opens on August 1 for the next application cycle
- Students can fill out one form for multiple colleges
- Starting early gives more time to perfect the application End File
Getting Started with the Common Application
The Common Application streamlines the college application process. It allows students to apply to multiple schools using one platform. Key aspects include understanding the system, setting up an account, and using available tools.
Understanding the Platform
The Common App is an online portal used by over 1,000 colleges worldwide. It lets students submit one application to multiple schools. The platform opens on August 1st each year for the next admissions cycle.
Students can browse member colleges, check deadlines, and view application requirements. The Common App also provides essay prompts and allows students to track their progress.
It's important to note that some schools may require extra materials or have unique deadlines. Students should always check each college's specific requirements.
Creating Your Account
To start, students need to create a Common App account. This process is straightforward and free. Users provide basic information like name, email, and birth date.
After account creation, students can add schools to their list. They can then begin filling out the main application. This includes sections on personal information, education, activities, and more.
It's wise to gather necessary documents before starting. These may include high school transcripts, test scores, and a list of extracurricular activities.
Key Features and Tools
The Common App offers several helpful features. The dashboard lets students track their progress and deadlines. There's also a college search tool to find schools that match specific criteria.
One key component is the writing section. Here, students can craft their personal essay. The platform provides essay prompts and allows students to preview how their essay will appear to colleges.
The Common App also includes a recommendation system. Students can invite teachers and counselors to submit letters directly through the platform. This makes managing recommendations easier for all involved.
Building Your College List
Creating a college list is a key step in the application process. It helps you focus your efforts and find schools that match your goals and interests.
Researching Member Colleges
The Common App has over 900 member colleges. These schools vary in size, location, and academic programs. To research them:
• Check college websites for detailed information • Look at virtual tours and campus photos • Read student reviews and testimonials • Compare admission requirements and deadlines
Pay attention to each school's unique features. Some may offer special programs or majors that interest you. Others might have strong sports teams or active student clubs.
College Search Strategies
Use these strategies to find schools that fit your needs:
- Start with your interests and career goals
- Consider factors like location, size, and cost
- Use online college search tools
- Talk to your school counselor
- Attend college fairs, both in-person and virtual
The Common App's College Search feature can help you find schools. It lets you filter by various criteria like major, location, and test scores.
Selecting Your Colleges
When choosing schools for your list:
• Include a mix of reach, target, and safety schools • Aim for 6-8 colleges total • Check if the schools accept the Common App
You can add up to 20 colleges to your Common App list. But applying to too many can be overwhelming. Focus on quality over quantity.
Remember to review each school's specific requirements. Some may need extra essays or materials. Keep track of deadlines, as they can vary by school and application type.
Completing the Application Components
The Common App has several key parts to fill out. Each section lets you share important info about yourself with colleges.
The Core Sections
The main Common App sections ask for basic details. You'll enter your name, address, and contact info. Next comes your education history. List your high school, grades, and classes.
Test scores are another key part. Add your SAT or ACT results if you have them. Some schools also want SAT Subject Test scores.
Family info is the last core section. This covers your parents' education and jobs. Be ready with details on where they went to school.
Extracurriculars and Activities
This section showcases what you do outside class. List up to 10 activities you've done in high school.
Include clubs, sports, jobs, and volunteer work. For each, note your role and how long you did it. Describe what you accomplished or learned.
Some tips: Be specific about your duties. Use action words to explain what you did. If you had a leadership role, make that clear.
Writing the College Essay
The essay is your chance to tell your story. Common App essay prompts change a bit each year. Pick one that lets you share something meaningful about yourself.
Your essay should be 250-650 words. Start early and revise it many times. Ask teachers or family to give feedback.
Focus on a specific event or idea. Use clear, simple language. Show, don't tell - use details to bring your story to life. Make sure your essay reveals something about you that's not in other parts of your application.
Final Steps and Submission
Completing your Common App involves several key steps. These include reviewing requirements, sending important documents, and managing deadlines.
Reviewing Application Requirements
Before submitting, double-check all parts of your application. Make sure you've filled out every section completely and accurately. Pay special attention to your essays and activities list.
Review your FERPA waiver decision. This affects who can see your application materials.
Check if you need to submit any school-specific supplements. Some colleges require extra essays or forms.
Sending Test Scores and Transcripts
Most colleges need official test scores sent directly from testing agencies. Plan ahead, as this can take several weeks.
Request your high school transcripts early. Schools typically send these directly to colleges.
Make sure your letters of recommendation are complete. Follow up with teachers if needed.
Managing Deadlines and Decisions
Keep track of different deadlines for each school. Early Action and Early Decision dates are usually in November.
Regular decision deadlines often fall in January or February. Some schools have rolling admissions with no set date.
Submit your application well before the deadline. The Common App uses your local time zone for cutoffs.
Remember to pay application fees or submit fee waiver requests for each school. The Common App opens on August 1st each year for the next admissions cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Common Application has specific dates and guidelines for students to follow. Knowing these key details helps applicants plan ahead and submit their materials on time.
What is the opening date for the Common Application for the upcoming academic year?
The Common Application opens on August 1st each year for the upcoming admissions cycle. This date marks the start of when students can begin filling out and submitting their applications.
Until when can students submit their applications through the Common Application?
Application deadlines vary by school. Most colleges have regular decision deadlines in January or February. Some may offer earlier deadlines for early action or early decision programs.
How early can students start preparing their submissions for the Common Application?
Students can start preparing well before August 1st. They can review essay prompts and gather necessary information ahead of time. This early preparation can reduce stress during the application period.
Does the Common Application platform reset annually, and if so, when?
Yes, the Common Application resets annually. While some information carries over, most details are deleted when the new cycle begins on August 1st.
What is the deadline for transfer students to submit the Common Application?
Transfer student deadlines differ from those for first-year applicants. These deadlines can vary widely between schools, often falling in March or April for fall admission.
Are there specific timeframes within which the Common Application must be completed for consideration?
Timeframes for completing the Common Application depend on individual college deadlines. Students should check the specific requirements for each school they're applying to and plan accordingly.