The Leading College Application System
The Common Application (Common App) is the most recognized and widely accepted online college application system in the United States and internationally. Over 1,000 member colleges and universities use the Common App, allowing students to fill out one core application and submit it to multiple schools, significantly streamlining the application process.
Key Features
- One Core Application: Enter personal details, family information, educational history, activities, and honors just once.
- Central Essay: Write the main Personal Essay based on provided prompts, used by many member colleges.
- Recommendation Management: Invite and manage recommenders (counselors and teachers).
- School-Specific Supplements: Complete additional questions or essays required by individual colleges.
- Application Tracking: Monitor submission status and deadlines within the platform.
How it Helps Students
- Simplifies the process of applying to multiple colleges, saving significant time and effort.
- Provides a standardized format familiar to both students and colleges.
- Offers resources and guides to help navigate the application components.
Pricing & Access
Using the Common Application platform itself is free for students. However, many colleges charge their own application fees, which are paid through the platform or directly to the college. Fee waivers are available for eligible students.