Avoiding Common Mistakes on the Common App

Did you know? Nearly 25% of college applicants make a critical error on their Common App that costs them admission to their preferred school.

With the right advice, you can dodge these pitfalls and apply with confidence.

In this newsletter, we’ll focus on the common errors that students often make on the Common App and how you can avoid them.

📌 Procrastination Till Last Moment

The biggest mistake students make is starting their Common App near the deadline. This leads to rushed work, missed details, and unnecessary stress that could be avoided with better planning.

To avoid these issues, it’s essential to start early. Here’s a suggested timeline:

1️⃣ July - August:

As Common App starts accepting applications on 1st August. You can start gathering materials early during your summers. This includes transcripts, recommendation letters, and test scores.

2️⃣ September - October:

Finalize your personal statement and supplemental essays. Writing well takes time, plus each college can request 3-4 supplemental essays.

Ensure the sections on extracurriculars, honors, and awards are complete and accurate.

📍 Early Decision (November 1st Deadline):

If you're applying for Early Decision, which typically has a November 1st deadline, aim to finalize your application by mid-October. By submitting early, you increase your chances of acceptance and demonstrate your commitment to the institution.

3️⃣ November:

Update your college application with any new test scores, honors, or awards you have received. Write supplemental essays for the respective colleges you’re applying to.

4️⃣ December - January (Regular Deadline):

Submit your application at least a week before the deadline. Technical issues or sudden complications are less stressful when you’re not facing a tight deadline. Submitting early also shows that you're organized and serious about your application.

By starting early, you'll avoid last-minute stress, have time to proofread, and make sure that every part of your application is the best it can be. 

📌 Writing What You Think Colleges Want to Hear

A common mistake students make is trying to write what they think colleges want, instead of being themselves. 

This often leads to essays that feel fake and uninspired. Admissions officers want to hear your real voice and unique perspective. Choose a topic that only you can tell and share in your own way.

For example, instead of writing a generic essay about wanting to make a global impact, you could write about a personal experience, like organizing a community cleanup event. This specific story would highlight your initiative and passion, showing admissions officers a genuine part of who you are.

📌 Missing Sync in Application

When admissions officers look at your application, they want to see consistency.

For instance, if you have mentioned a position of responsibility in your personal statement but it is NOT mentioned in the extracurricular and activities section, it might show inconsistency.

Ensure the information provided is consistent with what appears in the other parts of the application.

Ensure that the dates, descriptions, and titles are in sync.

📌 Neglecting the Additional Information Section

The Common App offers the Additional Information section as an optional one.

This section allows you to reveal extra information about situations or to turn to something that wasn’t possible to describe in the other parts of the application. 

If you've worked on unique projects, taken on big responsibilities, or overcome challenges that show your character and resilience, share those details here, if you couldn't fit them in the activities section.

You can also use this area carefully to explain why you now have low grades or had some difficulties in completing your education.

📌 Submitting Same Supplemental Essays

When you add colleges on the Common App, you'll see supplemental essay questions for most schools.

While some prompts may be similar, avoid submitting the same essay to multiple schools—it will come across as generic.

Never copy and paste without careful editing, as you might forget to change the name of the school. The last thing you want is to mention Harvard in your Yale essay.

📌 Not Editing and Proofreading

It may sound like a ‘duh,’ but many learners send in their applications for admission with blatant spelling mistakes. 

Grammatical mistakes, spelling errors, or unclear sentences can leave a negative impression on admissions officers. Always bear in mind that your application is representative of your capabilities and how meticulous you are. 

Final Thoughts

The Common App is your first gateway to the college of your dreams and should be presented impressively. By avoiding these mistakes, you will be able to present an application that presents the best version of yourself. 

Good luck!

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Amol & Nishant,

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