Key Aspects of the Common Application That Remain Constant

With college admissions evolving, the Common Application remains a crucial tool for students aiming for higher education. As the new academic year approaches and changes to the Common App are set to take place in August, now is the perfect time to get ahead in your application process. Here, we discuss six key aspects of the Common App that will not change. By tackling these elements now, you can reduce stress as deadlines loom.

1. Personal Information

Your personal information serves as the foundation of your Common Application. This section includes your name, date of birth, contact details, and residency status. Thankfully, this information stays consistent from year to year.

Before filling out this section, ensure you have your key documents ready. Pay close attention to avoid typos, particularly in your name and contact details. A small error, like transposing letters in your email, can lead to missed opportunities or delays in communication. Aim for accuracy to prevent setbacks.

2. Academic History

The academic history section is another vital part of your application that won’t see significant changes. This area includes your high school transcripts, course participation, and any awards or recognitions you've achieved. Accurate information is crucial.

Gather your transcripts early and ensure your grades reflect your efforts. If you took advanced placement courses or participated in special projects, list them comprehensively. For instance, if you completed a project that earned you a state-level award, highlight that achievement. Consult your high school guidance counselor to clarify any discrepancies. This proactive step will pay off.

3. Testing Section

In the Testing section, students can self-report scores for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT—even before August 1st. They can specify the tests they want to report (SAT, ACT, AP, etc.) and the dates they took them. It’s important to remember that while self-reporting is allowed, some colleges still require official score reports sent directly from testing agencies. Many schools have adopted test-optional policies, so be sure to check the requirements of each school you're applying to before deciding whether to report scores.

4. Extracurricular Activities

Colleges appreciate seeing how you engage in activities outside of academics. The extracurricular activities section is a constant in the Common App, allowing schools to assess your interests, commitments, and time management skills.

Start by listing all activities, including clubs, sports, volunteer work, or part-time jobs. Provide details about the time commitment for each, such as weekly volunteer hours or your role on a sports team. For example, if you organized a fundraising event for your community, mention it. Not only does it highlight your leadership skills, but it also shows your dedication. Having this list ready will save you time when writing essays and meeting deadlines.

5. Recommendation Letters

Most colleges ask for at least one or two letters of recommendation. You won't fill these out in the Common App, but it's essential to select your recommenders well in advance of the submission deadline.

Consider teachers, mentors, or supervisors who know you well and can speak to your strengths. Give them at least a month to write the letters, and provide information about your goals and accomplishments. If you led a community service project or received an award recently, share those specifics. A thoughtfully written letter can significantly impact your application. Strong recommendations can enhance your chances of admission by up to 20%.

6. Essays

Essays may seem overwhelming, but they are a key component of your application, allowing colleges to gain insight into who you are. The Common Application essay prompts will remain the same and provide a great opportunity to share your personal story beyond what admissions officers see on transcripts and test scores.

Start by brainstorming topics that genuinely represent you. Draft outlines and write initial paragraphs you can refine later. Think about your main message and how you want to portray yourself. For example, if a significant setback taught you resilience, don’t shy away from sharing that journey. Give yourself ample time for revisions, as this will relieve stress when deadlines approach.

7. Submitting Your Application

The submission process for your Common Application has maintained a user-friendly design over the years. Before hitting "submit," take a moment to pause and conduct a thorough review of your application.

Cultivate the habit of double-checking for errors, missing components, or specific requirements from colleges. Completing this review ensures your application is polished and ready for submission. Remember, the earlier you submit, the better. Many schools operate on rolling admissions, and earlier applications may be viewed more favorably.

A study space ready for college application work

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to feel overwhelmed by upcoming changes to the Common Application. By taking action on these six unchanging essentials now, you can simplify the submission process later. From gathering essential personal and academic data to drafting your essays and seeking recommendations, starting early can lessen your workload as deadlines approach.

Additionally, check out this useful resource to help streamline the application process. Don’t delay. Tackle these crucial elements today and give yourself a competitive advantage in your college admissions journey. Good luck!