Applying to college can feel overwhelming, but the Common App simplifies the process by allowing students to apply to multiple colleges with a single platform. Each year, more than 1 million students apply to over 1,000 Common App member colleges worldwide. While some colleges charge application fees, using the Common App platform itself is free.
This guide will walk you through the first-year Common App application process, from gathering materials to submitting your application. Follow these steps to stay organized and give yourself the best chance at success.
1. Gather Materials
Before starting your application, collect all the information you’ll need. Having these details ready will save time and prevent interruptions during the process.
What you’ll need:
- A copy of your high school transcript
- A list of activities, work, and responsibilities
- Test scores and dates (SAT, ACT, or other standardized exams)
- Parent/guardian information
- A record of academic honors and achievements
Tip: Keep these documents in one folder or digital file so they’re easy to access.
2. Create an Account
Creating a Common App account is simple and takes just a few minutes. You can start an account months—or even years—before you apply, and your information will roll over.
Steps to create your account:
- Go to the Common App website and click Create Account.
- Choose your student type:
- First-year student (if you haven’t attended college)
- First-year student (if you took dual-enrollment credits in high school)
- Transfer student (if you’ve already attended college after high school)
- Use a reliable email address you check regularly (avoid school emails that may expire or filter messages).
- Enter your legal name as it appears on official documents.
- Complete registration details and accept the privacy policy.
Account Rollover: Any information you save will carry over from year to year, so you can start exploring early.
3. Add Colleges
Once your account is set up, start building your My Colleges list. You can add up to 20 colleges through the Common App.
How to add colleges:
- Use the College Search tool to find schools by name, location, deadlines, or requirements.
- Click Add+ to include them in your list.
- Explore each college’s page to review details like application deadlines, fees, and writing requirements.
Tip: Keep your list organized on the Dashboard and adjust as needed. Remember, once you submit an application, you can’t remove that college from your list.
4. Engage Supporters
Most colleges require documents like school forms and letters of recommendation. With Common App, you can invite recommenders directly through your account.
Types of recommenders include:
- Counselors
- Teachers
- Parents
- Advisors
- Other recommenders (such as coaches or employers)
How to invite recommenders:
- Go to My Colleges → Recommenders and FERPA.
- Complete the FERPA Release Authorization.
- Enter the recommender’s name and email.
- Assign each recommender to the colleges of your choice.
Note: Each college sets its own recommendation requirements. Some may ask for multiple teacher letters, while others may not require any.
5. Understand Requirements
Every college has unique application requirements. Staying organized is crucial to avoid missing important details.
Possible requirements include:
- Deadlines
- Application fees (some schools offer fee waivers)
- Personal essay
- Courses and grades
- Test policies
- Portfolios
- Writing supplements
- Recommendations
Where to find requirements:
- Explore Colleges section
- My Colleges dashboard
- Requirements Grid
- Writing Requirements by College
6. Plan Essays
Essays are often the most time-consuming part of the application, but with planning, they can be manageable.
Essay sections may include:
- Common App Personal Essay (250–650 words)
- College-specific questions
- Writing supplements
Tips for essay success:
- Start brainstorming early.
- Write multiple drafts.
- Be authentic and use your own voice.
- Ask a teacher, mentor, or counselor for feedback.
7. Submit Your Application
The final step is submitting your application. This is a three-step process:
- Review your application carefully for errors or missing information.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable). Fee waivers are available for eligible students.
- Submit your application and confirm it has been received.
Conclusion
The Common App makes applying to college more streamlined, but it still requires careful planning, organization, and attention to detail. By gathering materials in advance, building your college list, engaging supporters, and preparing your essays early, you’ll reduce stress and increase your chances of success.
With more than a million students using Common App each year, this platform is a powerful tool for reaching your higher education goals. Start today, stay organized, and approach each step with confidence.