Can You Submit Additional Recommendations to the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s a Little More Complicated Than You Think)
So, you’ve painstakingly filled out the Common App, meticulously crafting essays that showcase your love for obscure 17th-century poetry and your dedication to rescuing orphaned squirrels. You’ve even managed to convince your guidance counselor to write you a letter of recommendation that doesn’t mention your “quirky sense of humor” (thank goodness!). Now, the only thing left is… drumroll please… the dreaded recommendation letters.
But wait! You just remembered that amazing summer internship where you single-handedly saved the company from a disastrous marketing campaign (okay, maybe you just helped out a little). You desperately want to include a recommendation from your awesome boss, but you’ve already hit “submit” on your application.
Panic sets in. “Can I still add a recommendation after submitting my Common App?” you frantically Google.
Well, my friend, buckle up, because the answer is… it’s complicated.
The Common App: The Great Equalizer (Or Not?)
The Common App is designed to streamline the college application process, allowing students to apply to multiple colleges with a single application. This is a beautiful thing, right? Except, it’s not always that simple. While the Common App offers a centralized platform for submitting applications, each university has its own set of requirements and preferences. Think of it like a buffet where everyone can choose from the same dishes, but some people have a secret back room filled with their own special delicacies.
The “Additional Recommendation” Conundrum
So, back to the question at hand: can you submit an additional recommendation?
Yes, you can! But here’s the catch:
- The Common App itself doesn’t have a limit on the number of recommendations you can submit. However, the number of recommendations you can submit to each college is determined by that specific college’s requirements.
- Some colleges may explicitly state that they only accept a certain number of recommendation letters, while others may just suggest a range.
- You can add a recommender after you’ve submitted your application, but you’ll need to do it through the specific college’s portal, not the Common App itself.
What Happens When You Submit More Than the Required Number?
Here’s where things get interesting.
- Some colleges might simply ignore the extra recommendations. They’ll only look at the required number, so those extra letters will just be extra work for everyone involved.
- Others might actually penalize you for submitting too many letters. They might see it as a sign that you’re not able to prioritize and make decisions effectively, which is not exactly a desirable quality in a college applicant.
- And some colleges might actually appreciate the extra effort. They might see it as a sign of your enthusiasm and dedication, and it could even give you an edge over other applicants.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Go Overboard
So, should you submit an additional recommendation?
- Start by checking the specific requirements for each college you’re applying to. This is the most important step, as it will tell you exactly what they’re looking for.
- Ask yourself if the additional recommendation would genuinely add value to your application. Is it from someone who can speak to your unique skills and experiences? Would it provide a different perspective than the other letters you’ve already submitted?
- If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution. It’s better to stick to the requirements and submit a strong, well-rounded application than to risk overwhelming the admissions committee with too much information.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to reach out to your guidance counselor or a college admissions counselor. They’re there to help you navigate the complexities of the college application process and make sure you’re submitting the strongest possible application.
A Final Word of Advice: The “Extra” Recommendation Is a Double-Edged Sword
Think of it like a fancy dessert. A little bit of extra sweetness can elevate the experience, but too much can leave you feeling sick and regretful.
So, use your “extra” recommendation wisely, and remember that sometimes less is more.
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the world of college applications and need more guidance, connect with us at JobLoving! We’re a community of experts who are here to help you every step of the way. Let us help you achieve your college dreams!