There are three main types of college applications:

• The college’s own application

• The Common Application

• The Coalition Application 

Some colleges accept more than one type of application and allow the student to choose.

• Go to the college’s website and find their Admissions information webpage

• Each college's website will list the type of application(s) they accept

• Look at the Application Fast Facts for commonly needed information about your high school

• The Organize Your Applications section has a worksheet to keep track of applications and logins

The Common Application is a universal application used at over 1000 member colleges.

CLICK HERE for Application Guide for First Year Students : this resource contains useful information on creating your account, inviting recommenders, essay and other writing requirements, etc.

• Video: Overview of the Common App (Zoom session for juniors on May 21, 2021)

• Video: What Is the Common App?

• Video: The My Colleges Tab

Common Questions about the Common App

• Fast Facts for College Apps information about Prospect and your graduating class that you will enter

• Account Rollover - August 1: What Rolls Over

• How to Report Dual Credit Courses

• Recommendations:

  • Video: How to Find Recommendation Requirements in the Common App

  • How to Assign Recommenders

  • Video: Inviting and Assigning Recommenders in the Common App

• Activities List

  • How to Write a Successful Common App Activities List

  • Prospect Activities Descriptions

Many colleges offer their own unique application.

• Access the college's application on their website

The Coalition Application is a universal application used at over 150 member colleges. 

It is recommended that you only apply using The Coalition Application if the college does not accept any other applications. The college’s own or Common App is often less cumbersome, more intuitive and results in faster processing time.

Coalition Quick Start Guide

• Check out the Quick Start Guide to get you started on your Coalition Application

Coalition Student Help Center