How Many Versions of the Common App Can I Create? (Because College Applications Are A Rollercoaster, Not a Straight Line)
You’re knee-deep in the college application process, and you’re probably feeling like you’re in a constant state of existential crisis. Between essays that sound like they were written by a robot, standardized tests that make you question your own intelligence, and a seemingly endless list of colleges, it’s enough to make you want to throw in the towel and just go live in a yurt in the woods.
But before you go full-on Thoreau on us, let’s address the elephant in the room: the Common App. Specifically, the burning question of “How many versions of the Common App can I create?”
Now, I know what you’re thinking: The Common App is a one-size-fits-all deal, right? Just fill it out once and send it to every college on my list, and boom, done.
Hold your horses, my friend. It’s not quite that simple. The Common App has some quirks and rules that can make your head spin faster than a hamster on a wheel fueled by Red Bull.
The Common App: A Brief History of Stress
The Common App is like that one friend who’s always trying to be helpful but ends up making things more complicated. It’s a well-intentioned platform that aims to streamline the college application process, but it can sometimes feel like navigating a labyrinth designed by a bored deity with a penchant for riddles.
So, to answer your question: You can’t create multiple Common App accounts with the same email address. Think of it like this: you can’t have two Facebook accounts with the same email address, right? Same deal with the Common App.
But fear not, young applicant! The Common App doesn’t want you to feel like you’re trapped in a digital purgatory. They understand that life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and your college application journey is no exception.
When a New Version of the Common App is a Must
So, when do you actually need to create a whole new Common App account?
Here’s the scenario breakdown:
- You’re applying to more than 20 colleges: The Common App has a “My Colleges” list where you can choose up to 20 schools to apply to. Think of it like your college dating pool. But if you’re vying for the attention of over 20 colleges, you’re going to need a new account. This is because the Common App doesn’t allow you to have more than 20 colleges on your list at a time. Think of it like a digital dating app: You can only swipe right on so many people before you need to upgrade your account.
- You want to start fresh: Sometimes, you just need to hit the reset button. Maybe your initial Common App is a bit of a mess, or you’ve had a major epiphany about your life goals. If you feel like your current application doesn’t reflect who you are, you can create a new version to start from scratch. Think of it like a bad breakup: You’re not going to keep the same profile picture on Tinder after you’ve been through a bad breakup, are you?
The Common App’s Flexibility: It’s Not As Rigid As You Think
Here’s the good news: the Common App isn’t as rigid as it seems. You can make changes to your application even after you’ve submitted it.
- Edit your essay: You can tweak your essay as many times as you want after you’ve submitted it. So, if you’re feeling a little unsure about your essay, don’t panic! You have the power to refine it and make it shine. Think of it like a first draft: No one expects a first draft to be perfect. You’re allowed to revise and edit!
- Submit different essays to different schools: You can personalize your application by choosing different essays to submit to different schools. Think of it like tailoring your outfit: You wouldn’t wear the same outfit to a job interview and a night out with friends, would you?
- Adjust your My Colleges list: You can add or remove colleges from your My Colleges list at any time before you submit your application. Think of it like a shopping cart: You can add and remove items until you’re ready to check out.
The Common App: It’s A Marathon, Not A Sprint
The college application process is a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t be afraid to take your time, make adjustments, and embrace the inevitable chaos.
Remember, the Common App is your ally, not your enemy. It’s there to help you navigate this complex process and showcase your best self to colleges.
And if you ever find yourself questioning the rules of the Common App or feeling overwhelmed by the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted advisor or counselor. They’re there to support you every step of the way.
Need more help or want to dive deeper into the nuances of the Common App? Hit us up at the JobLoving community! We’re always here to answer your questions and help you conquer the college application process.