As you begin your senior year of high school, the excitement and anticipation of college life are just around the corner. Whether you’re exploring campuses, researching programs, or diving into application guides, one crucial tool will be your key to unlocking opportunities at over 1,000 colleges worldwide: the Common Application. With deadlines looming in the fall and winter and some schools offering rolling admissions, navigating the application timeline can feel overwhelming. But what exactly is the Common Application, and how can you use it to your advantage? Let’s break it down and prepare you for the first step towards your future.
What is the Common Application?
The Common Application is an online tool that helps you apply to multiple colleges (1100+) using a single platform.
It was created in 1975 to simplify the college application process. Instead of filling out separate applications for each college, you can use the Common App to submit your basic information and then add specific details required by each college. Using the Common Application allows you to apply to over 1,000 colleges worldwide with ease. It saves time and effort by letting you manage multiple applications from one place.
How Does the Common Application Work?
The Common Application has two main parts:
- The Common Application: This part includes general information about you, such as:
- Academic background
- Extracurricular activities
- Awards or achievements
- Personal details
- A personal statement or college essay
This information is sent to all the colleges you apply to.
- The College Supplement: Each college may have additional questions, essays, or requirements. These supplements are specific to each college and are only sent to the colleges that require them.
When Can You Start The Application?
August 1st of each year, although actual applications to colleges will vary per school, and depending on your choice to apply Early Decision (typically November-December) or Regular Decision (typically Jan 1)
Key Dates for the Common Application
- August 1st: The Common Application refreshes for the new year, and you can start working on your application. However, it’s not necessary to submit right away.
Application Deadlines
- Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA):
- Deadlines are usually around November 1st.
- It’s a good idea to submit your application 1-2 weeks before the deadline.
- Prioritize these applications first because they are due earlier.
- Regular Decision:
- Deadlines are typically in January.
- You have more time to work on these applications.
- Rolling Admissions:
- Some colleges accept applications over a longer period until all spots are filled.
- Even with rolling admissions, try to apply by the priority deadline to increase your chances of getting scholarships or spots in popular majors.
How To Start The Common Application
Step 1: Create Your Account
- Go to the Common Application website and create an account.
- Fill out basic details like your applicant type (first-year or transfer) and the academic year you’re applying for.
Step 2: Add Colleges
- Once your account is set up, add the colleges that use the Common App to your dashboard.
- This allows you to work on both the general application and specific supplements for each school.
Step 3: Gather Extra Documents
- High School Transcript: Arrange for your school to send this.
- Recommendation Letters: Ask teachers early, ideally during your junior year.
- Test Scores: Take standardized tests and consider retaking if needed.
Step 4: Prepare Your Essay
- Review past personal statement essay prompts on the Common Application blog.
- Start brainstorming ideas for your essay over the summer.
Common App 101: Next Steps
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of how and when to start your Common Application, you’re well on your way to successfully submitting your college applications. While the process can be overwhelming, remember that you’re not alone. If you encounter any challenges or have further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. We’re here to help you navigate your application journey. With preparation and the right guidance, you’ll be ready to take the next exciting step in your educational journey.
Sources:
The Common App site
– Common App: Application guide for first-year students
USNews: The Common App: Everything You Need to Know
Originally posted Feb 2024, updated Jun 2025
Former Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Admissions at Vanderbilt University
Former Senior Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Admissions at Emory University
6 Years in Vanderbilt University Admissions
3 Years in Emory University Admissions
13,000+ Applications Read and Evaluated
Brandi is dedicated to helping young people navigate the ever-changing college admission landscape. She has close to 20 years of expertise in the college admissions profession. Brandi has experience in both application evaluation and decision making, college counseling, financial aid and scholarship advising and selection, and essay review and writing. She spent the majority of her professional career at Emory University and Vanderbilt University, serving as a college counselor at an elite independent JK-12 school, and creating and leading a college counseling office in a large suburban public school.
