Common App VS School-Specific App ???

<p>Hey Guys! I was hoping you could help me figure this out...</p>

<p>If a school says you can apply via Common Application w/ Supplement OR via their own specific application, what should you do?! </p>

<p>Common + supplement is by far the easier choice, but don't you think admin officers would (consciously or subconsciously) view an applicant who filled out the school-specific application as more passionate about going to that school/more likely to accept acceptance? (if that makes sense)</p>

<p>You may say I'm overthinking this, but if I am, why would the school even offer it's own app... I mean why wouldn't they just offer the "supplement" and do away with their own app?</p>

<p>Honestly! College admissions appears to be pure logistics! ugh, and confusing at that. Thanks in advance! :)</p>

<p>Yes. You are overthinking this.</p>

<p>They offer their own app for the very small possibility that someone doesn't want to apply to more than one school. It used to happen pretty often. It is also probably a hold-over from before the common app. They are both viewed the same. Take the easy way.</p>

<p>I've thought about the exact same thing. My guidance counselor said that both were viewed identically, but I'm not entirely sure; I suppose if you're very passionate about a single school, and are applying early decision or something, it could help you (but only very slightly). Honestly, the it's probably not worth the extra effort for the intangible benefit conferred.</p>

<p>Remember that the people reading your application are not the ones who wrote the application. It is probably easier on them if you use the Common App; all the info is in the same place, all the same questions, etc. You may be better off using the Common App, if there is any difference at all.</p>

<p>I just reread A for Admission and she basically said common application is harder for Adofficer.</p>

<p>A for Admission is pretty old in terms of technology and how technology is viewed. I wouldn't put too much stock in it. (For example, some schools charge more in application fees if you don't use the Common App.)</p>

<p>I agree it's old but it's one of the latest college admission books written from an Adcom perspective. But I think Michell statement is from the Adcom perspective that they do not prefer common application, but everybody now moves over to the common application because it's easier. I know my d will use it but I was referring to the point regarding Adcom preference.</p>