<p>My child got an email from a college that's listed under "My colleges" in her common app, thanking her for listing them. I thought that they didn't know that they are listed until you actually submit the application! </p>
<p>I believe so. That’s why so far, my son hasn’t listed any colleges at all on his common app. We may only submit them this way - ED school only, ED2 added (if necessary 
), then add RD schools if necessary.</p>
<p>I do not know if they only get the student’s email and name, or if they get the whole shebang so far. The latter worries me.</p>
<p>I also wouldn’t want to add a school now, then take them off later if he changes his mind.</p>
<p>“I do not know if they only get the student’s email and name, or if they get the whole shebang so far. The latter worries me.”</p>
<p>I didn’t even think about that! That would be a real intrusion of privacy.</p>
<p>They can’t see your application until you submit it- just that it exists. You aren’t under any obligation to submit if you list them- colleges know this. </p>