Do Scholarship Athletes Need To Do The Common App

The Common App: Not Just for “Normal” Kids? (Spoiler Alert: It’s for Everyone!)

So, you’ve got a kid who’s practically a walking highlight reel – crushing it on the field, court, or whatever their sport of choice is. They’re getting recruited, the college coaches are drooling, and you’re dreaming of those sweet, sweet scholarship dollars. But here’s the thing – even the most athletic whiz kid still needs to fill out the Common App.

Yeah, you read that right. Scholarships or not, every student needs to go through the college application process. It’s like the universal language of getting into college – everyone speaks it, even the star athletes.

Now, before you start envisioning your kid filling out essay after essay about their love of the game, let’s break down why this is actually a good thing. Think of it as a “two birds, one stone” situation:

1. The Common App is the Ultimate College Application Time-Saver:

Think of the Common App as a one-stop shop for college applications. Instead of filling out a different application for each school, they can use the Common App and submit it to multiple colleges. No more duplicate information, no more scrambling to find the right forms. It’s like a streamlined, organized, college application paradise (seriously, it’s a lifesaver!).

2. The Common App Makes Scholarship Hunting Easier:

Ever heard of the College Board Scholarship Search? Well, it’s a hidden gem nestled within the Common App. Students can use the info they already provided to apply for various scholarships! It’s like a treasure chest full of potential free money – talk about a winning situation!

3. The Common App Makes You Stand Out (In a Good Way):

We all know that colleges want students who are well-rounded. The Common App gives your athlete the chance to showcase their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal interests – beyond just their athletic prowess. It’s like saying, “Hey, we’re awesome at sports, but we’re also brilliant, compassionate, and awesome people!”

So, how do you navigate the Common App landscape as a scholarship athlete?

First things first: Don’t panic! The Common App isn’t some mythical beast. It’s a user-friendly tool designed to make the college application process smoother.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to steer your athlete through the Common App:

1. The College Application Process: The common application is the process by which individuals apply to gain entry into a college or university. It is a standard application that can be submitted to multiple colleges, reducing the number of applications that need to be filled out.
2. The College Board Scholarship Search: The College Board Scholarship Search is a free service that allows students to apply for scholarships by reusing information from their Common Application. It is a great way to find scholarships that match the student’s academic and extracurricular profiles.
3. The FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form that students need to fill out to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid, including loans, grants, and work-study programs.
4. The CSS Profile: The CSS Profile is a form that students need to fill out to determine their eligibility for financial aid from private colleges and universities.
5. The Supplement: While the Common App has a standard application, colleges may require additional information, such as supplemental essays or recommendations.
6. The Standardized Tests: Most colleges require students to take standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT.
7. The Official Campus Visit: It is a good idea for students to visit the campus of the colleges they are interested in. This gives them a chance to get a feel for the school and meet with the coach.
8. The Scholarship Offer: Once the student has been accepted to a college, they will receive a scholarship offer. The offer will specify the amount of the scholarship and the terms of the award.

Remember, the Common App is more than just a form – it’s a stepping stone to a bright future!

Here are some tips to help your athlete ace the Common App:

• Get started early: Don’t wait until the last minute. The Common App takes time to complete, especially with the essays.
• Be honest, be yourself: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Colleges want to see your unique personality and achievements.
• Proofread, proofread, proofread: Make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors. This shows the college you care about your application.
• Get feedback: Ask teachers, guidance counselors, or family members to review your application.
• Don’t forget the supplement: Pay close attention to any supplemental requirements so your athlete doesn’t miss out on a chance to shine.

The Common App is about more than just getting into college – it’s about showing colleges who your athlete is, both on and off the field. It’s about showcasing their talent, drive, and potential – all the things that make them a stand-out student.

So, embrace the Common App and let your athlete shine!

If you need further help, advice or research resources about do scholarship athletes need to do the common app, be sure to connect with our JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the college application process and find the perfect fit for your student-athlete. Good luck!