Can I Do the Common App Through College Board? (And Other Burning Questions About College Applications)
Alright, future college grads, let’s talk about the great college application saga. You know, the one filled with essays that make you question your life choices, deadlines that make you sweat, and a general sense of “am I doing this right?”
So, you’re wondering, “Can I do the Common App through College Board?” Well, buckle up, because the answer is a little more nuanced than a simple yes or no.
The Short Answer: No, you can’t directly apply to colleges using the College Board website.
The Long Answer: The Common App and College Board are like two different planets in the college application galaxy. They work together, but they’re not exactly BFFs. College Board is all about the standardized tests (SAT and AP exams), while the Common App is the platform for submitting your college applications.
Think of it like this: College Board is the test-taking guru, while the Common App is the application maestro. They both play crucial roles in the college admissions process, but they operate independently.
The Connection: While you can’t actually apply to college through College Board, you can link your Common App account to your College Board account. This handy feature allows you to easily send your SAT scores directly from College Board to the colleges you’re applying to through the Common App.
Why is this helpful? Imagine this: you’ve spent countless hours crafting your Common App essays, filling out your extracurriculars, and meticulously polishing your resume. Then, you have to manually send your test scores to each college – a nightmare, right? Linking your accounts eliminates this tedious task and ensures your scores reach their destination seamlessly.
But wait, there’s more! Linking your accounts can also be a lifesaver for financial aid. When you submit an application through the Common App, you’ll see a link to sync your data with College Board in the Financial Aid Resources section. This allows you to access valuable resources and information about financial aid opportunities.
Now, let’s address some other college application mysteries:
Do I have to send SAT scores through College Board or Common App?
The answer is clear: always send your SAT scores directly from the College Board. Colleges generally don’t accept printouts or copies of your score reports – they want the official scoop straight from the source.
Is it better to apply through the Common App or directly?
The Common App is generally the best option. It’s widely used across the country, making it a breeze to apply to multiple colleges with a single application. But remember, some colleges have their own application portals. If you’re applying to multiple colleges with diverse application processes, it’s best to contact each school and find out their preferred method.
How do I submit the college Common App?
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Create a Common App Account: Think of this as your passport to the college application world.
- Confirm College Eligibility: Make sure your dream schools accept the Common App. You can find this information on their websites.
- Review Admission Info: Dive deep into each college’s admission requirements, deadlines, and application materials.
- Gather Your Information: This is where your extracurriculars, essays, and grades become your best friends. Get your ducks in a row!
- Start Working on Your Application: This is the fun part (maybe not, but hey, you’re getting closer to college!).
Do colleges care if I use Common App?
Students aren’t required to use the Common App. Many colleges accept applications directly through their websites. But, let’s be honest, the Common App is the most popular option, so it’s a safe bet.
Some Tips for Success:
- Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to start your applications. You’ll thank yourself later.
- Proofread, Proofread, Proofread: Typos and grammatical errors can be a major turn-off.
- Be Authentic: Your essays should reflect your true personality and unique experiences.
- Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to ask your teachers, counselors, or parents for assistance.
Remember: The college application process can be overwhelming, but don’t panic! With a little planning, organization, and a healthy dose of humor, you’ll navigate this journey with ease.
Need more help navigating the application process? Connect with us at JobLoving! We’re happy to offer advice, resources, and even a virtual shoulder to cry on (okay, maybe not the crying part, but you get the idea).
Good luck, future college stars!