The Common Application, also known as the Common App connects applicants (who are applying for their undergraduate degree) to a wide array of public and private colleges and universities across all 50 U.S. states, and 20 countries. Through the Common app, a student can apply to multiple institutions while having a single application for all. The application may require you to submit a personal essay, supplemental essays, letter of recommendations, list of activities, interviews information etc. 

Here are five things you need to keep in mind when filling out the common application: 

1. Begin early and take your time: Most students start to work on their personal and supplemental essays and their activities list as soon as they enter their junior year (or equivalent to 11th standard). This helps the student to plan the application in a very pleasant and captivating way. The ability to constantly improve and reform their drafts before submitting them for the final time creates a huge difference compared to those who begin at the last moment. 

2. Do not write casually: When writing the drafts for your essays or filling out the activity section on the Common App, make sure that you write in a systematic manner. Try to write as if you’re writing to an acquaintance and not a casual friend. Moreover, maintain a well-formatted structure for your drafts as it’ll help you get the gist of the final application. You could create a well-laid table when creating a draft for your activities. Here’s an example:

3. Pay attention to the details: In most cases, the application can become really complex and confusing if not filled out with attentiveness and concentration. Go over every intricate detail and every question thoroughly before submitting the application. Even the slightest mistake like an error in personal information could create complications in your profile. Mentors and counselors at UniRely suggest students get their application and essays read by their parents, teachers and counselors to be sure.

4. Select the right person to write your LOR(s): The LOR is a document that provides the admission officers with an idea of who you are, from the perspective of someone who knows you well. When selecting the person who’ll write the LOR for you, be sure that he/she knows you well enough. This would help them in revealing your true identity and characteristics to the admission’s officer. It can be anyone who can provide an unbiased opinion about your skills and unpacking your personality – be it your subject teacher, professor, coach, boss etc. 

5. Be true to yourself: The most important thing to keep in mind while filling out the common application or preparing the drafts is that you have to remain true to yourself with a holistic review when approaching yourself. This helps in bringing out an efficient and authentic application which the officer should be able to recognize when kept with hundreds of other applications. Remember, you are not the only who’s applying to that University, there are several other applications present as well. However, the authenticity towards your personality and the application is what makes it memorable to the admissions officer. Make sure, to be honest on your entire applications, as lying can have serious repercussions.