The College Common Application

The Common Application is, as the name implies, a uniform application that is accepted at over 275 colleges across the country. Some of its benefits and drawbacks are outlined below:

The Common Application Versus the College's Own Application

Some colleges and universities offer the option of using the common application or the school's specific application. Officially, the schools do not have a preference for their own form and essays over the common application. In fact, the colleges must sign a form promising not to give preference to the applicants who complete the school-specific application.

Unofficially, there is indeed a slight bias towards the candidates who complete the school-specific applications and answer the more customized essay questions. In short, this applicant often appears to be more sincere about the college.

Our Advice to You

Consider these questions when you consider a college that accepts both the Common Application and a school-specific application:

• Are you a "stretch" at this school?

• Do you really want to attend this school?

• Do you have the time to spend on this school's application without jeopardizing your other application deadlines?

• Are you confident that you can do a better job presenting yourself in the school-specific application than the Common Application?

If you answered "yes" to all these questions, then use the college-specific application over the Common Application.