The Different Types of Applications

The college application process can be confusing. Choosing where to apply is often the most difficult 
initial step, but when it comes to completing your applications, you may have options. Read below to
​learn about the different applications that you may need to complete.

The Common Application

The Common Application allows students to complete one application and send it to any member school of the Common App. There are almost 900 schools across the US that accept the Common App. 

The Common App requires several components, including a personal essay, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, optional supplemental questions, standardized test scores and the high school transcript. The application is fully online and allows students to edit their application prior to submitting it to multiple colleges.

The Universal Application

The Universal Application is similar to the Common App, but only has 9 participating colleges. Students only need to complete the application one time and can submit to all the participating colleges on the student's list. Many colleges that accept the Universal App will also accept the Common App.

The Coalition Application

The Coalition for College is a diverse group of more than 150 distinguished colleges and universities across the U.S. that is committed to making college a reality for all high school students through its set of free, online college planning tools that helps them learn about, prepare for, and apply to college.
The Coalition’s online toolkit, MyCoalition, is designed to engage students in the college application process early and easily. It is comprised of a convenient digital storage Locker, interactive Collaboration Space, and easy-to-use application, which is accepted at all member schools.

Individual College Applications
Some colleges still offer a separate application that only applies to their institution. Most colleges who offer their own application will also accept the Common App or Coalition App. These colleges typically do not have a preference which application a student chooses to submit, but it is recommended to reach out to the admissions offices to see if they have an application preference.