Applying to College

What is the Common App?

• A state-only college application

• An online platform used by many colleges to apply

• A test for college admissions

• An online database of scholarship offers

What does your high school transcript show?

• Only your senior year grades

• Only test scores

• Your courses, grades, and GPA

• Your parents’ education

Who typically writes letters of recommendation?

• Your best friend

• A teacher or counselor

• A college student

• A coach with no academic link

When does the Common App typically open?

• July 1

• August 1

• October 1

• December 1

Why might a fee waiver be important?

• To skip writing essays

• To avoid paying application fees

• To get into college faster

• To improve your GPA

A college asks for a portfolio. What does this mean?

• You need a photo ID

• You must submit art or design work

• You must submit extra SAT scores

• You need two transcripts

What does "Early Decision" mean?

• You apply late and get a decision quickly

• You must attend if accepted

• You can choose later, not binding

• You only apply to one school ever

If a college is not on the Common App, what's your next step?

• Drop that college

• Find its individual application

• Apply through SAT®

• Wait for it to join

How should you manage varying essay requirements?

• Skip essays to save time

• Use the same essay for all

• Track each college’s prompts

• Write only the optional ones

A school offers direct admission through the Common App. What’s the benefit of applying early?

• You avoid essays

• Deadlines are flexible

• It increases your chances of getting accepted

• It waives transcript fees