Does the Common App Ask for Your Sexuality? (And Why It Shouldn’t)
Ah, the Common App – that glorious beast, the bane of every high school senior’s existence. It asks about your GPA, your extracurriculars, your dreams, your aspirations, and even your parents’ income (cue the awkward silence). But does it pry into your personal life in the form of a “What’s your sexual orientation?” question?
Short answer: No. The Common App doesn’t explicitly ask for your sexual orientation. However, it does require you to indicate your legal sex, which is a whole different kettle of fish.
The Common App’s Gender Identity Stance:
Hold onto your hats, folks, because this is where things get interesting. The Common App currently offers “male” and “female” as options for legal sex. But, starting in the 2023-2024 application season, they’re rolling out a “X or another legal sex” option.
This change, while seemingly small, is a big deal. It recognizes that gender identity is a spectrum, and not everyone fits neatly into the traditional binary. It’s a step in the right direction, but still, the Common App isn’t asking about your sexual orientation.
Why Doesn’t the Common App Ask About Sexuality?
There are a few reasons for this:
- Privacy, Privacy, Privacy: Your sexual orientation is a deeply personal matter. It’s not relevant to your academic abilities or your potential as a student. A college application shouldn’t force you to reveal such a sensitive aspect of yourself.
- Discrimination Concerns: Asking for sexual orientation on a college application could unintentionally lead to discrimination. Let’s be real, there are still institutions out there that might not be as welcoming to LGBTQ+ students. The Common App wants to create a level playing field for all applicants.
- The Focus Should Be on Academic Merit: The Common App is designed to assess your academic achievements, your potential, and your fit for a particular college. It’s not a platform for personal confessions.
What Happens if a College Does Ask About Sexuality?
While the Common App might not ask, some colleges (MIT and the University of Iowa, to name a few) are actually adding questions about sexual orientation to their applications. They argue that this information helps them understand the diversity of their student body and create a more inclusive environment.
Should You Mention Your Sexuality on the Common App?
Here’s the thing: it’s not recommended. Your sexual orientation doesn’t define you as a student, and it shouldn’t be a factor in your college application.
Remember, it’s not about hiding who you are – it’s about letting your academic prowess shine. Colleges want to see your grades, your essays, your extracurriculars, and your passion for learning. They want to see the unique individual you are, not just your sexual orientation.
The Bottom Line:
The Common App doesn’t ask about your sexuality, and it’s probably best to keep it that way. Focus on showcasing your academic strengths and your personality through your essay and other application materials. Remember, your sexuality doesn’t define your worth, and it shouldn’t be a determining factor in your college acceptance.
Looking for more guidance on navigating the Common App and the college application process? Head over to JobLoving and connect with our community of experts. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of college admissions and make sure you’re putting your best foot forward!