• The Common App

    What is the Common App?

    More than 40 years ago, a small group of colleges and universities got together to reimagine the college application process. One application, 15 forward-thinking institutions. What began as an experiment to simplify the admissions process has evolved into a global college access movement.

    Today, The Common Application (Common App) is a non-profit membership organization representing nearly 900 diverse institutions of higher education.We connect applicants and those who support them to a wide array of public and private colleges and universities across all 50 U.S. states, and 20 countries.

    Each year, more than one million students - a third of whom are first generation - apply to college, research financial aid and scholarships, and connect to college counseling resources through Common App. But the path to higher education has changed. While everyone can go to college, not everyone does. In order to help all students reach their goals, we’re dedicated to:

    • Lowering the logistical and systemic barriers to college access

    • Supporting those who support students

    • Serving a diverse group of students and institutions

    • Leveraging data and insight to inform our member institutions

    We do this by making the application simple, the process logical, and the experience joyful. Together, we’re forging a direct path to higher education for all students.

    Why Would I Use the Common App?

    If applying to multiple schools that accept the Common App, you may save time by not needing to complete a separate application for each individual school. Note that many schools require some additional information from you outside of the Common App material.

    If My School Accepts the Common App, Do I Have to Use It?

    That will vary depending on the college. Many colleges give students the option of completing the Common App or the school's application. Check the admissions page for your college or ask your admission rep.

    What if Some Colleges I am Applying to Require the Common App and Others Do Not?

    The application you choose to complete is always your choice when you have multiple options. Generally, we would recommend that you apply using the Common App if three or more of the colleges you are applying to offer it as an option. If fewer than three schools use the Common App, use the school's application

     

     

    Common Application Checklist

    Remember that many schools do NOT require the Common Application. Only complete this application IF multiple schools you are applying to accept the CA.

    1. Match your Common App in Naviance-watch this video.

    2. Complete the  Letter of Recommendation Form and share with your recommenders and counselor.

    3. Complete the Transcript Request  Google form

    4. Email your counselor to let him/her know you are completing the Common App.