Tackle These 6 Common App Sections Now for a Stress-Free Application

With college admissions constantly 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, there’s no better time to get ahead of your application process. Here, we will discuss six key aspects of the Common App that are not changing. By tackling them 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 doesn't change from year to year.

Before you fill out this section, make sure you have key documents ready. Pay close attention to avoid typos, particularly in your name and contact details. For example, a small error such as transposing letters in your email can lead to missed opportunities or delays in communication from colleges. Aim to have accurate contact details to prevent setbacks.

2. Academic History

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

Gather your transcripts early, ensuring your grades reflect your efforts. If you took advanced placement courses or were involved in special projects, make a comprehensive list. For instance, if you completed a project that earned you a state-level award, highlight that achievement. Don't hesitate to consult your high school guidance counselor to clarify any discrepancies. This proactive step will pay off.

3.Testing Section

Students can self-report their scores for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT in the Testing section, even before August 1st. They can specify which tests they want to report (SAT, ACT, AP, etc.) and the dates they took them. It's crucial to remember that while students can self-report scores, some colleges may still require official score reports sent directly from the testing agencies. Many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, so students should check the requirements of each college they are applying to before deciding whether to report scores

4. Extracurricular Activities

Colleges appreciate seeing how you've engaged in activities beyond academics. The extracurricular activities section is a constant in the Common App, enabling schools to assess your interests, commitments, and how you manage your time.

Start by listing all activities you’ve participated in, including clubs, sports, volunteer work, or part-time jobs. Provide details about the time commitment for each activity, such as the number of hours you volunteered weekly or your role in a sports team. If you organized a fundraising event for your local community, it's essential to mention that. Not only will it highlight your leadership skills, but it also shows your dedication. Having this list ready will save you time when it comes to writing essays and meeting deadlines.

5. Recommendation Letters

Most colleges ask for at least one or two letters of recommendation. While you won't fill these out in the Common App, you need to choose those who will write them for you well in advance of the submission deadline.

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

6. Essays

Essays may seem overwhelming, but they are a significant component of your application that allows colleges to understand more about you. The Common Application essay prompts will remain the same, and is a great opportunity to share your personal story beyond what admissions officers will see on your transcripts and test scores.

Start by brainstorming topics that genuinely represent who you are. Draft outlines and write initial paragraphs that you can refine as needed. 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. Allow yourself ample time for revisions, as this will alleviate pressure 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.

Develop the habit of double-checking for errors, missing components, or specific requirements from the colleges you are applying to. Completing this detailed review will help ensure your application is polished and ready for submission. Remember, the earlier you submit, the better. Many schools operate on rolling admissions and earlier applications might 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 come.

Don’t delay. Tackle these crucial elements today and give yourself a competitive advantage in your college admissions journey. Good luck!