The Common Application (Common App) is the most widely used college application platform in the United States. Here's everything you need to know.
What Is It?
The Common Application is a single online platform used by over 900 colleges and universities. Instead of filling out separate applications for each school, students complete one Common App with their personal information, academic history, activities, and personal essay — then submit it to as many schools as they choose. This saves enormous time.
Which Schools Accept the Common App?
Over 900 schools participate, including virtually every Ivy League school (except Princeton, which has its own application — actually Princeton does use Common App), most highly selective private universities, and many public universities. Notable schools that do NOT use the Common App: MIT, Georgetown, all University of California schools (use their own UC application), University of Texas at Austin, and many others with proprietary applications.
What's Included
Personal information, family background, high school information, grades and courses, standardized test scores, activities (up to 10), awards and honors, personal statement essay (up to 650 words), school-specific supplemental questions, and payment of application fees. Students can add up to 20 schools per account.
When Does It Open?
The Common App opens for the new cycle on August 1 each year. Students can begin filling it out anytime, but cannot submit to schools until August 1. Most students start filling it out in summer and submit EA/ED applications by November 1.
Important Tips
Create your account early in the summer before senior year. Complete core sections first (personal info, activities, test scores), then focus on the personal statement. Review each school's supplemental requirements separately — most selective schools have additional required essays beyond the Common App itself.