<p>I had filled out the Common Application, then found out I cannot get the application fee waived (as a transfer student) unless I submit the SUNY Application. So I filled that out. But it doesn't include a section for an essay and is different from the Common App in many other ways. One of the schools I am applying to does not require a supplement. Does that mean they do not want an essay? I wrote the essay and would very much like this school to read it because it is my top school, the one I would like to get into most. As it is, all they have is my basic info. How can I stand out against other applicants? I feel like this was a mistake. I know that they say they don't prefer one application over another, but they are so different, how can this be true?</p>
<p>bwhitman - which SUNY institution is waiving your fee for the SUNY app but not for the Common App?</p>
<p>Well, all of them. Specifically I’m applying to Binghamton and Albany, but it wouldn’t matter. Apparently I’m not able to have the fee waived for being a transfer student unless I fill out the SUNY app. Only if I’m having the fee waived for financial hardship could I use the Common App (I think, this wasn’t really clear either). But since I’m going to a community college and graduating with an Associates degree, I’m entitled to have the fee waived for up to 4 SUNY schools. As long as I use the SUNY app. I called up everyone, spoke to people at my school, and finally was able to get this answer.</p>
<p>I’m just worried that my application will be passed over. The Common App is such a better application giving you more chances to show how you’re different. Binghamton doesn’t have a supplement so all they’re seeing is my basic info. How can they say they treat both applications the same when they include such different information?</p>
<p>If you send me a private email via CC, I’ll give you an email address of someone who can help you -</p>
<p>Thank you for your help, but I don’t think there is anything else to do. I already submitted the application. I was just hoping for an explanation of how they can be judged equally when they include different information.</p>
<p>Thank you for notifying us. If we confirm the information you provided is accurate, you will have helped future students because this is something we can prevent ever happening again. In the meantime, if you would like us to contact the SUNY’s to which you have applied to tell them you’d prefer to submit a second application, the Common Application, and have that reviewed in determining your admission, we will be happy to make that call. If you decide to proceed in that way, please indicate so by emailing the email address I sent your privately.</p>