What is the Common Application?

The Common Application (Common App) is the most popular college application. It covers over 1,000 colleges and universities. Applicants can apply to multiple schools with one application, the Common App.

Applicants can create their Common App account in mid-August preceding senior year. It is recommended that students use a personal email address when creating their Common App account.

The Common App includes five tabs: Dashboard, My Colleges, Common App, College Search and Financial Aid. The Common App tab is the application. Applicants will complete the Profile, Family, Education, Testing, Activities and Writing sections; some applicants will be required to also complete the Courses & Grades section. It is highly recommended that applicants do not submit applications until they review it with their School Counselor.

When requesting letters of recommendation from teachers and the School Counselor, do not make the request through Common App. You will submit the request through Naviance. Other recommenders will be invited through Common App (coach, pastor, family, employer, etc.).

Applicants will need to connect their Common App account with Naviance. Common App is the application and Naviance is the platform that processes transcripts and letters of recommendation. Seniors will connect the two platforms when meeting with their School Counselor in the Fall.