So You Want to Go to George Mason? Let’s Talk Common App (Or Not).
Okay, so you’re thinking about George Mason University, huh? Good choice, especially if you’re looking for a place where you’re practically guaranteed a spot. Did you know George Mason has a 90% acceptance rate? That’s like, almost everyone gets in! It’s like the “Welcome to the Party” sign is permanently stuck on the front gate.
But before you start celebrating, let’s talk about the elephant in the room, the Common App. You see, George Mason is one of those universities that’s got a bit of a “choose your own adventure” thing going on. You can apply via the Common App, which is like a universal application for a bunch of colleges, or you can go with their own “Mason-exclusive” application. You know, like a special VIP line for Patriots fans only.
So, which one should you choose? Well, it depends. Are you applying to other schools besides George Mason? If so, the Common App is your best bet. It’s like having one giant application that you can use for multiple schools, saving you time, energy, and maybe even a few sanity points. On the other hand, if you’re only applying to Mason, their own application is perfectly fine.
Let’s break it down a little:
Common App: The “One-Size-Fits-Most” Approach
The Common App is like that pair of jeans you grab when you’re in a rush. It’s comfortable, familiar, and does the job. It’s accepted by over 900 colleges and universities worldwide. Think of it as the “universal language” of college applications. You fill out your basic information once, and then you can use that information for multiple schools (save you some time and typing!). The Common App is also cool because it has a section where you can upload letters of recommendation. Just tell your teachers and counselors to send their recommendations directly to the Common App. Easy peasy.
The Mason-Exclusive Application: A Personalized Touch?
Now, let’s talk about George Mason’s own application. It’s like that custom-made suit – it’s tailored just for you. If you’re only applying to Mason, you might prefer to go this route. It’s a little more focused on Mason specifically and allows you to highlight your strengths and interests that are relevant to their program. Plus, you can avoid filling out the same information multiple times if you’re not applying to other schools.
But What About The SAT Score?
Let’s talk about the SAT score for a minute. You might be thinking, “Do I even need to take the SAT if George Mason accepts almost everyone?” Well, while it’s true that their acceptance rate is pretty high, a good SAT score won’t hurt. Think of it like a bonus point on your application. Remember, George Mason likes to see at least a 1160 on the SAT. If you’re aiming for a higher score, that’s even better. It shows that you’re academically prepared and dedicated to your studies.
Is George Mason Hard to Get Into?
The short answer is no, not really. But that doesn’t mean you should just wing it. Make sure you submit a strong application with good grades, solid test scores, and compelling essays. Don’t forget those two letters of recommendation! You wouldn’t want to miss out on a chance to join the Patriot family because you forgot to have your high school counselor and a teacher write a letter about how awesome you are.
A Final Word of Advice
So, to recap: Use the Common App if you’re applying to multiple schools, or go with Mason’s application if you’re only applying to them. And no matter which way you go, make sure you have a decent SAT score (at least 1160) and stellar recommendations. It’s like that extra layer of frosting on your application cake. You’re practically guaranteed a spot at George Mason, but you always want to make a good impression!
If you’re still feeling a little lost in the college application process, don’t worry! There are tons of resources available, including online guides, college counselors, and even your high school guidance office. And if you’re looking for a community of like-minded students and future Patriots, be sure to check out the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the college application process, find scholarships, and connect with other students who are just as excited about George Mason as you are.
Remember, getting into college is a big deal, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can make sure your application stands out from the crowd… well, at least stand out from the pile of other applications at George Mason!