A question about the common application…for schools that allow you to submit either the common app or their own app, do they have a preference over which one you submit? I sort of thought that the common application might seem less personalized, like you just applied on a whim, but maybe that’s just me being anal.
<p>Most of the time, they really don't care. However, some of the more selective colleges have a special supplement for you to submit if you choose the Common App over their own app. This normally asks for more essays/short answers and more personal information.</p>
<p>yes, in a is for admission</p>
<p>common application != the best thing. use the school's app.</p>
<p>I think the only difference is price (for some schools); I've seen a few that won't charge you a fee if you use the specific college electronic application. However, I don't think it matters that much. If the colleges are part of the CommonApp program, they know what they're getting-a more streamlined process. I don't think it will severely affect your chances of getting in--especially if you chose a college that does CommonApp exclusively!</p>
<p>From what I've read here and in books, the actual AdCom's get a "sanitized" of your application. All the information that you submit, not matter how it is submitted, is condensed to a more readable for. After all, even if you send in your application by mail, I think most schools have it entered into the computer. Thus, I don't think there is a clear advantage to using either application. I seriously doubt that any AdCom will make an admissions decision over such a trifling matter. The reason that the colleges accept the common app, after all, is to make the admissiosn process easier and more streamlined for you.</p>
<p>read number 5 on the first section, and the second bullet on the second: "We guarantee equal treatment in the selection process and express no preference for submission of institutional applications over the Common Application."</p>
<p>the schools that accept the common app MUST not discriminate against it as per the agreement, and yes i believe that what tanman said is true, and that this also helps to eliminate any unconscious biases</p>
<p>When filling out the application on line (as some schools offer), do you have to finish the application in one sitting or can you complete it over a few days/log ons?</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>All the ones I've seen allow you to save your progress and come back later to finish it. There might be some that are different though...</p>
<p>anybody else have a total fear of online applications?</p>
<p>I am so scared I'll somehow mess it up by placing the wrong info in the wrong box or sending the application with one of the answers unfinished...I know there are ways of avoiding situations like that (completing it in Word first for ex) but still...</p>
<p>LadyinRed
Don't worry. Online apps have many safeguards built in such as not letting you submit without warning you if something is left blank. All let you go back and review each page before continuing. When you are done, print out a hard copy, review it and then have someone else proofread it. Once you are satisfied, relax and hit submit.</p>
<p>I don't think colleges care which app (common or theirs) you use, but I think using the school's app lets you focus completely on preparing the best app for each specific school. Sometimes just listing ECs in a different order can give a different impression that may better fit an individual school. I am not a big fan of the common app. Clues to what a school is looking for can often be found in their own app.</p>