The Common Application vs. College Applications
With the Common Application, a student applying to six different participating colleges can, in theory, fill out one single application and send it off to all six schools with one click of the mouse. The purpose of the Common App is to make it easier for students to work on their college applications. Yet, as the intensely competitive race to get into a good college heats up, some students worry schools will favor applicants who fill out the school's own application over those applying via the Common App.
Some colleges that accept the Common App have other requirements, such as Supplements, that need to be submitted in addition to the Common Application. Be sure to read the application requirements carefully.
View the Common Application Website here.
Think Ahead and Stay Organized
1. Start your success file. Start a file where you collect and/or note your work history and experiences, successes, interests, awards, leadership activities, community service, etc. The earlier you start, the easier it will be to come up with your achievements later on in the process. Freshman year isn't too early to start!
2. Prepare for your SAT/ACT. Start as early as possible to prepare for any tests that may be required. Advanced preparation can help improve your scores. Last minute cramming won't.
3. Talk to your guidance counselor to make sure you are taking the courses you need to meet your college admissions requirements. If appropriate, look into AP courses and/or placement tests to help boost your impression on admissions officers.
4. Fill out forms required by your high school. Many high schools have their own protocols when it comes to teacher recommendation requests, transcript requests, counselor recommendation requests, and so on. There will probably be high school specific forms you will need to fill out and a certain amount of time before your applications are due. Many schools are now going “paperless” when it comes to college applications, so make sure you know the correct protocol for requesting and submitting all of the related paperwork.
5. Use a planning calendar. Keep track of all the application requirements of your potential colleges and write down all of the deadlines on a planning calendar. Work backwards from each of these deadlines to figure out when you need to take care of each component of the application. For example, jot down on your calendar when you'll need to start your essay in order to have it edited, re-written and completed on time. Figure out when you'll have to call and schedule your admissions interview, leaving time for any travel arrangements and scheduling issues you may encounter.
6. Don’t forget to send your test scores. Standardized test scores are a crucial part of your application and entirely your responsibility. You will need to self report your scores on your application, but you will also need to send your official test scores through CollegeBoard (SAT & SAT II) or ACT.org (ACT). Make sure that you don’t forget this critical part!
7. Apply as early as possible. Getting your application on an admission officer's desk before most other students puts you at the head of the line for an admission offer and shows that you are a diligent and punctual person.
Quality is Key
1. Use a word processor, such as MS Word, to type your writing samples before cutting and pasting or uploading them into the online application. It is much easier to edit and review your work and to catch spelling and grammar mistakes.
2. Edit your work! It may sound elementary, but be sure to carefully review all portions of your application for spelling and grammar mistakes. Have a parent or teacher review your paperwork also. Sometimes the little things (spelling errors or omitted information) can make the difference between acceptance and rejection.
3. Get EXCELLENT letters of recommendation from outstanding people in your community. Letters of recommendation are a vital part of the college admission application and should be treated as such. Make sure to ask for recommendation letters far in advance. The last thing you want to do is rush the people who are doing you a favor. Be sure to share your interests and aspirations with them to help your letter be as effective as possible. We suggest you prepare a resume/profile to help jog their memory and help them be more specific. Your high school may also have additional forms you will need to fill out.
4. Essays are Essential. Start thinking about topics early, and see if you might be able to use the same essay topic for more than one application. Be personal, concise, watch your spelling and grammar, and seek multiple opinions for feedback.
Any additional tips to share? Leave your comments!
About Smart Track™ Toolkit: The toolkit is a web based service that assists families with everything from admissions and test prep, to student athletics and financial aid. Our intuitive software and on-demand workshops are key components to making sure students find their top choice colleges, and families can afford to send them there.
About the author: Laura Guarino is the Student Services Coordinator with College Planning Strategies, LLC. Laura has a degree in Human Development from Boston College and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in School Guidance Counseling. She is also enrolled in a certificate program in College Admissions Counseling. Laura is at the forefront of the college admissions process for the families of CPS and The Smart Track™ Toolkit.
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