The Common Application is a widely used platform that allows students to apply to multiple colleges and universities using one application. It was created in 1975 with the goal of simplifying the college application process for both students and colleges.

The Common Application consists of six main sections: personal information, family, academic, testing, activities, and writing. In the personal information section, students are required to provide basic information such as their name, address, and contact details. The family section asks for information about the student’s parents or guardians, including their educational background and occupation. The academic section requires students to enter details about their high school coursework, grades, and standardized test scores.

The testing section allows students to self-report their SAT, ACT, and other standardized test scores. The activities section allows students to detail their extracurricular activities, work experience, and other accomplishments. The writing section is where students can provide a personal essay, which is an important part of the college application process.

In addition to these sections, the Common Application also allows students to request letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors, submit additional information such as a resume or portfolio, and track the status of their applications.

The Common Application is accepted by more than 900 colleges and universities in the United States and around the world. Some of the colleges that accept the Common Application include Harvard University, Stanford University, Yale University, and the University of California system.

One of the main benefits of using the Common Application is that it saves students time and effort by allowing them to apply to multiple schools with one application. This can be particularly helpful for students who are applying to multiple colleges or universities with similar requirements.

Overall, the Common Application is a valuable tool for students who are applying to college. By using this platform, students can streamline the application process and increase their chances of being accepted to their desired colleges and universities.