Can I Send Extra Material Via Common App? The Answer Might Surprise You
So, you’re applying to college and you’ve just finished filling out the Common App, which is like the all-inclusive vacation package of college applications. But wait, you’ve got some extra information you want to share with the schools. You’ve got a passion project that’s more impressive than a politician’s “achievements” list, or a unique story that would make a Hallmark movie weep. Now you’re wondering, “Can I send extra material via Common App?”
The answer, my friend, is a little more complicated than a “yes” or “no.” It’s more like a “maybe, but it’s tricky.”
The Common App’s Additional Information Section: Your Extra Baggage
Think of the Common App’s “Additional Information” section as that tiny little extra suitcase you can bring on a plane. It’s not the main luggage, but it’s there for those crucial items you can’t fit anywhere else.
This section is your chance to:
- Explain a low GPA or test score: Maybe you went through a rough patch, or your school didn’t offer the most rigorous courses. This is your chance to tell your story. Just remember, don’t blame anyone else. Own it.
- Highlight a unique achievement: Did you invent a new way to make toast (and no, it’s not just with Nutella)? Or maybe you led a team that cured world hunger (okay, maybe not). This is your time to shine!
- Address a gap in your application: Maybe you took a year off to travel the world and learn to speak fluent Mandarin while drinking tea with a Tibetan monk. This section is your chance to explain your life choices (and impress the admissions committee with your adventurous spirit).
- Share information not covered elsewhere: Your Common App essay might not have room for that time you helped a lost puppy find its way back to its owner. Or maybe you have a hidden talent for juggling chainsaws (please don’t actually juggle chainsaws). This is where you put it all out there.
Important Notes: Keep It Short & Sweet
Remember, the Additional Information section has a 650-word limit. That’s about the length of a short story, or a really long tweet. You’ve got to be concise and impactful.
Here’s a quick rundown of what to keep in mind:
- Don’t be a repeat offender: Don’t rehash information already mentioned in other parts of your application. Adcoms are not fans of redundancy. They’re busy people, and they want to get to the good stuff.
- Be specific: Avoid vague statements like “I’m a hard worker” or “I’m passionate about learning.” Instead, use concrete examples to demonstrate these qualities.
- Stay focused: Don’t go off on tangents about your pet hamster’s quirky habits. Stick to what’s relevant to your application.
- Proofread, proofread, proofread: You don’t want to send in an application with typos or grammatical errors. It’s like showing up to a job interview with a messy appearance – you’re not making a good first impression.
When to Use the Additional Information Section
You might be thinking, “Do I really need to fill this out?” The answer is, it depends.
Here are some scenarios where the Additional Information section is your best friend:
- Explaining a bump in the road: Did you have a health issue that affected your grades? Did you have to take on a family responsibility that impacted your extracurricular activities? This is where you can shed light on these situations.
- Highlighting something unique: Have you done something outside of the usual high school experience? Did you found a non-profit organization? Did you perform research at a prestigious lab? This section is your chance to brag (in a humble way, of course).
- Filling a gap in your application: Did you switch majors? Did you take a gap year? Did you move to a new country? Use this section to provide context and show the admissions committee that you’re a well-rounded individual with a clear vision for your future.
When to Skip the Additional Information Section
Sometimes, less is more. Don’t force it. Here’s when you can give this section a pass:
- You’re happy with your application: If you’ve put in the effort, have a solid GPA, and have strong extracurriculars, you might not need this section.
- You’re short on time: The college application process is already stressful enough. If you’re running out of time, skip the Additional Information section unless it’s absolutely necessary.
- You’re worried about oversharing: This section is a double-edged sword. It can help you, but it can also hurt you if you’re not careful. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
The Bottom Line: Be Strategic
The Additional Information section is a powerful tool, but it’s not a magic wand. Think of it as a strategic move in your college application game. Use it wisely, and you might just get that coveted acceptance letter.
What About Sending Extra Materials?
Now, let’s talk about sending extra material outside of the Common App. This can be a bit more tricky.
Some schools may ask for supplemental materials, such as:
- Portfolios: For art, music, or design majors.
- Writing samples: For writing programs.
- Letters of recommendation: From mentors or employers.
Check the college websites: Each college has its own requirements and procedures. Check the individual college websites for specific instructions on how to submit additional materials.
Keep it organized: Don’t just randomly send things. Organize your materials and label them clearly. You want to make it easy for the admissions committee to find what they need.
Don’t overdo it: Only send what’s absolutely necessary. Too much can be overwhelming and even detrimental to your application.
The Common App: A Love-Hate Relationship
The Common App can be a blessing and a curse. It’s a convenient tool that simplifies the application process, but it also comes with its own set of quirks and limitations.
The Downside of the Common App
- Limited school options: You can only apply to 20 colleges through the Common App. If you’re applying to more than 20 schools, you’ll need to use other application systems.
- System crashes: The Common App is a popular platform, and it can sometimes crash during peak submission times. This can be a stressful experience, especially when you’re already under pressure.
- Not all schools use it: Some schools have their own application systems. This means you’ll need to fill out multiple applications, which can be time-consuming and confusing.
But remember, the Common App is a tool, not a dictator. Use it wisely, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful college application journey.
Need More Help? Connect with Us!
If you need more help figuring out if and how to submit extra material via the Common App, or if you have any other questions about the college application process, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to guide you through this exciting and sometimes stressful journey.
Connect with us at the JobLoving community, and we’ll be happy to help you navigate the college application process with confidence and a little bit of humor, because let’s be honest, we all need a laugh during this crazy time.