Supported by a not-for-profit organization, the namesake Common Application is appealing particularly to homeschool students and their parents, as they may not have access to college admissions counselors and guidance counselors. The Common Application is based on a process that combines subjective and objective criteria, thereby creating a holistic snapshot of the applicant.
Before applying via the Common Application, the student should first determine if the college or university he is applying to accepts the Common Application. The website provides a complete listing of participating schools. Visit commonapp.org to determine if your college is a participant.
After determining whether the school(s) of choice fall on the list, the student should then begin the application process. The application is readily available online at commonapp.org. The form can be completed and submitted electronically, or it may be printed and mailed. Online submissions, however, are the preferred method of delivery, as 1.4 million were submitted online in 2009. Homeschooled students should also complete the Homeschool Supplement Form, which is also available on the site. This form provides an opportunity for the student to describe further his curriculum, his particular homeschool organization's philosophy and relevant school contact information.
Further documentation required of all applicant-including homeschooled students--using the Common Application is the completion of an untimed essay, a recommendation form (at least one is required), and a description of school activities.