<p>How important is it to submit an application in type written form? If we download a pdf file from the school's website, the form does not allow us to type on it (and then print). So we have to print a blank application and either print neatly or find an old fashion typewriter?</p>
<p>It would be better to submit the online application.</p>
<p>Believe it or not, a book on applications "Acing the College Application" says to fill them out by hand, the old fashioned way, so the college connects with a real person or something like that. Tho most college websites say they prefer online. Bottomline, if you need to do it by hand, go ahead and don't worry.</p>
<p>The book gives crazy advice that is not at all up to date with current admission office practices.</p>
<p>Ah--interesting! Not to derail this post, but what about the idea of the Activity List attachment: grouping your interests together to reflect a composite picture better than those little boxes that allow for no wiggle room? My son's putting a couple of pages together as the attachment to the Common App--is that under the crazy advice category, too? Anything else in particular you deem crazy (claiming major/career as undecided or not checking race?)--you've got my interest!</p>
<p>Have you tried downloading foxit? I use it instead of adobe and much prefer it. it will let you type on the form and print it (though not save it unless you buy the upgraded version - basic is free).</p>
<p>I was having problems with large downloads freezing and downloaded foxit about a month ago. I like it so much that I have uninstalled adobe.</p>
<p>I agree with Tokenadult. To give the impression, in 2008, that a student is unable to use a computer to fill out their application would be a mistake, IMO. Admission reps that I talked to last year said the handwritten applications are an inconvenience and are scanned into the computer so as a result are harder to read. They very much prefer online.</p>
<p>To reply to the question asked above, I figured I wouldn't advise my son to attach a resume or brag sheet or activities list to any of his applications next year. I will advise him to use any "what else should we know?" or other optional essay to the hilt, and may suggest adding "see attachment" to the end of Common Application responses if he runs out of space for certain kinds of information specifically asked for. In a lot of college applications, less is more. I used to be an editor, and the difference between an edited text and a raw draft is length--the edited text will be shorter.</p>
<p>Thanks for the feedback, tokenadult.</p>