CommonApp Uncommonly Easy Way to Apply to College

For those students looking to apply to multiple colleges, but lacking the will to write multiple essays and lacking the funds to write multiple checks, the CommonApp is a saving grace.

The CommonApp is a single application that allows students to apply for multiple colleges using a single application and essay. You'll still have to pay multiple fees, though some of the schools will waive the fee if you apply online. Others will let you pay less or submit a receipt for a charitable donation instead of paying the regular application fee. Application fees range from $25-$100.

If that's not enough reason to apply using the CommonApp, there's more...

The CommonApp saves students tiime on researching colleges. Generally, the CommonApp can be used to apply to a group of member colleges. The original CommonApp can be used to apply to 298 independent colleges, including 6 of the 8 Ivy League colleges.

Other commonapps allow you to apply to colleges based on geography and/or type of college. Collegefortexans.org allows students to apply to Texas schools. EDUcated! allows students to apply to 34 historically Black colleges and universities for a flat fee of $35.

Download a sample CommonApp