The Common App

Many out of state and private schools use The Common Application. Deadlines vary greatly, so make sure you keep track of all your schools' deadlines.

All applications have a help feature available

Tips for Applying to the Common App:

  • Community College Classes not on your BHS transcript can be added to the Common App in the additional information section in the writing section under the common app tab.

  • SAT/ACT testing requirements are changing. Many colleges are now test-optional. This means that you do not need an SAT/ACT score to apply. However, for highly rejective colleges, it would be wise to take a test and submit a score. Please contact Mrs. Marwick or your counselor for further advice.

Start Your Common Application

Application Guide

Essay Prompts & Tips

Request a Letter of Recommendation

Tips for Entering Grades in the Common App:

  • After selecting Benicia High School, choose A-F for grading and semester for the term system.

  • Benicia High School Code: 050280

  • Class size and your rank are listed in the GPA box on your transcript

  • Class rank reporting is Exact

  • We are on the semester, weighted gpa, out of 4.0

  • State student ID is in the last box on the bottom left corner of your transcript

  • To enter Gov/Econ. Type the name of the class you have now and select Semester 1 and In Progress, Semester 2 No Grade. For the class you have later, select Semester 1 No Grade, Semester 2 Planned.