Having first set up shop in 1975, the Common Application is the oldest college applicant aid in America. It remains the preferred application amongst America’s Ivy League schools. The Common Application has significantly developed over the last few decades to compete with the wave of competition that has emerged.

The Common App works to save you time by simultaneously applying to several different colleges and universities. However, despite its 40+ years of existence, the App is still a source of confusion to some. Let’s take a look at the basics to make sure you know everything you need to know. 

What Are You Required To Fill Out?

Setting up a Common App account should be straightforward, and you should fill it out as you would any application. 

The necessary credentials you need to present in the application process are your SAT and ACT scores, academic achievements, hobbies, transcripts, and a self-penned cover letter. Be sure to fill out all these categories accurately. 

After you’ve sorted out the basics, you need to check all the colleges and universities you intend to apply to and see if they require any additional information or documentation. This could extend to additional cover letters or even letters of recommendation. 

The Common App Layout 

If this is your second time using the Common App, the entire layout might have changed, as the App had a full redesign in 2019.

Upon entering the App, you will be faced with five tabs. The first tab that you should after setting up your account is labeled ‘College Search.’ In this tab, you can add all the schools that you plan on applying to.

These selections will then appear under the ‘My Colleges’ tab. You’ll also be able to keep an eye on each application’s process in the section titled ‘Dashboard,’ where you will be informed of any upcoming work that you are required to submit. 

The ‘Common App’ section is where you can find all of your documents. 

Other Important Information 

The Common App is active annually beginning August 1st. From this date onwards, you can apply for colleges via the App. 

The App will inform you when deadlines close. However, this can vary greatly depending on the school and the type of application you are submitting. 

Over 900 different colleges and universities use the Common App today, offering alternative application options. 

Concluding Thoughts

The Common App can only assist you part of the way – you’ve got to carry out most of the work to get your applications in on time. We recommend that you keep your eyes on the deadlines and start the process as early as possible.