What happens if I miss a deadline on the Common App?

Cue the dramatic music. Missing a deadline on the Common App…

Do I need to complete the Common App in one sitting?

Nope, and thank goodness for that. The Common App is not a one-and-done…

Do all colleges accept the Common App?

Not quite. While the Common App is widely accepted, not every…

How many colleges can I apply to using the Common App?

You can apply to up to 20 schools using the Common App. That’s…

What are the current Common App essay prompts?

The Common App releases a set of essay prompts each year, and…

Can the Common App essay be edited after submission?

Once you submit your Common App essay to a college, you cannot…

Can I reuse my Common App essay for different schools?

Yes, you can reuse your Common App essay for every school you…

How long should the Common App essay be?

The Common App essay has a word limit of 650 words, but that…

What are some Common App essay mistakes I should avoid?

Let’s get one thing out of the way: your essay is not a second…

Should I use humor in my Common App essay?

If you’re funny, yes. If you’re trying to be funny, proceed…

Can I reuse an essay I’ve already written for another class?

Sure, you can use a school essay—but proceed with caution (and…

How do I choose the right Common App prompt for my story?

Think of the prompts like different doors at a party. One of…