Filling out one application for multiple schools is quite convenient for today's college student, allowing for flexibility and saving time. The Common Application allows students to fill out either a paper application to be mailed in after completion or an electronic application to be filled out and submitted online. The Common Application electronic application can be filled out at CommonApp.org. The electronic application submission will be easier and quicker to process and saves students even more time.
The Common Application is used by schools to evaluate students in a holistic selection process, which include objective as well as subjective criteria. These schools may require at least one recommendation form, at least one un-timed essay, grades and test scores. Colleges that are members of the consortium are the only colleges that allow students to use the Common Application to apply for admission. In 2010, nearly 2 million applications were submitted using the Common Application Online.
When completing a Common Application online, it is best to save your work as often as possible --- usually after you enter a new response to a question. This makes it easier to retrieve work if your computer should fail. It is advised that students log out after each session. Closing the window won't log you out, so make sure you find the link that says 'Log out' and use it. Some recommend using a word processor to type in writing samples that may be required, which prevents you from losing any work should your computer crash. Cut and paste all of your writing into the Common Application fields and keep a copy on your computer just in case. Using "Print Preview" to view your forms before hitting the "Submit" button is always wise. Performing a spell check is also advised. You may need to install Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is a free program for your computer.
Participating North Carolina colleges accepting the Common Application include Duke University, Wake Forest University, Salem College, Meredith College, Guilford College, Davidson College and the University of North Carolina-Asheville.