Can Parents Keep Track Of Common App

Can Parents Keep Track of the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Tricky)

Ah, the Common App – that digital labyrinth of college applications that makes even the most organized teenager feel like they’re navigating a jungle of essays, deadlines, and confusing acronyms. But what about parents? Are they left in the dark, forced to pace the sidelines while their offspring wrestle with this beast?

The Short Answer: It’s Complicated

The Common App is designed to be student-centric, prioritizing student privacy and autonomy. So, no, parents can’t directly log into their child’s Common App account. But fear not, dear parents, there are ways to be involved and even become your child’s secret weapon in this college application saga.

Let’s Break Down the “Can’t” and the “Can”:

• Can’t:Log directly into your child’s account. The Common App takes student privacy seriously, and parents can’t access their child’s application unless specifically invited.
• Can:Be an advisor. Your child can add you as an advisor on their Common App, giving you access to view their progress and offer support.

Think of it like this: Imagine the Common App is a teenager’s bedroom. You, the parent, can’t just barge in, but they can invite you to help them clean up or offer advice. You can’t control the entire process, but you can offer guidance and support.

So, How Do You Become Your Child’s Common App Advisor?

1. The “Advisor” Role: The Common App allows students to designate advisors, who can be anyone they trust to provide support with their applications. Think of it as a digital cheerleader, a trusted mentor, and a friendly reminder to submit those essays on time.
2. The “Parent” Role: While you can’t directly log into your child’s account, you can still be a valuable resource for your child. Provide emotional support, help them with brainstorming, proofread their essays, and stay organized with deadlines.
3. The “Family Section”: The Common App does have a “Family” section where students provide information about their parents’ education and occupation. This is used for demographic purposes and doesn’t involve parental access to the application.

Other Ways to Stay Involved:

• Open Communication: Talk to your child about their college application process. Encourage them to share their thoughts, challenges, and triumphs.
• Stay Organized: Use calendars, shared spreadsheets or to-do lists to keep track of important dates and deadlines.
• Resourcefulness: Familiarize yourself with the Common App website and resources to stay informed.

But Wait, What About Privacy?

While the Common App prioritizes student privacy, it also recognizes the importance of parental involvement. Here’s how they balance the two:

• Limited Access: Advisors don’t have access to all aspects of the application, such as personal essays or recommendations.
• Student Control: Ultimately, the student controls who they invite as an advisor and what level of access they grant.

Remember, the Common App is a tool, not a prison. It’s designed to empower students to take ownership of their college application journey, while still allowing for parental support and guidance.

The Bottom Line:

While parents can’t directly log into their child’s Common App account, they can be active and supportive advisors, offering encouragement and guidance throughout the application process. The Common App is about collaboration, not control. So, take a deep breath, relax, and remember, you’re a valuable resource – even if you can’t see every detail of your child’s application.

Need More Help?

If you’re still feeling lost in the Common App maze, don’t despair! Connect with our JobLoving community for expert advice, tips, and resources. We’ve got you covered!