Does Your Common App Lock When You Submit? (And Other Pressing College Application Questions)
You’ve poured your heart and soul into your Common App. You’ve wrestled with essays, painstakingly crafted your resume, and even managed to convince a stranger to write you a glowing letter of recommendation. You’re ready to hit that submit button, but a nagging question pops into your head: “Does my Common App lock when I submit?”
Well, my dear future college student, fear not! We’re diving deep into the world of Common App submissions, tackling those burning questions, and maybe even throwing in a few college application-themed jokes along the way. (Don’t worry, they’ll be good ones, I promise.)
Here’s the lowdown:
Yes, your Common App does basically lock when you submit it, but it’s not as dramatic as a vault door slamming shut. Think of it more like a “you’ve made your bed, now lie in it” situation. You can’t change the parts of your application that you’ve already submitted to a specific college. So, if you’re thinking about editing your essay after you’ve sent it off to your dream school, you’re out of luck.
But, wait! There’s a twist! You can still access your submitted applications in your Common App account. You can even download a PDF copy of your application, complete with all the glorious, slightly embarrassing details you poured into it. So, if you want to relive the glory (or cringe at the mistakes), you’re free to do so.
Now, let’s delve deeper into the common app submission process and answer some of your other burning questions.
What happens after I submit my Common App?
Once you hit “submit” and pay that hefty application fee, your application is electronically whisked away to the Common App’s data warehouse. Think of it as a giant digital filing cabinet where your application sits, patiently waiting to be sent to the colleges on your list. Each university can then download your application securely, giving them your entire academic and personal story.
Can I edit my Common App after I submit it?
Okay, I know we already touched on this, but it’s a big one, so we’re going to hit it again. You can’t edit the parts of your application that you’ve already submitted to a specific college. It’s like trying to change the words on a sealed letter; it’s simply not possible.
However, you can go back and edit your Common App for future submissions. So, if you’re applying to multiple colleges, you can tweak your essay and other sections for each school. Just remember to make sure you’re submitting the correct version to each college.
Can colleges see my Common App before I submit it?
This is where things get interesting. Colleges only see your Common App information after you’ve hit that “submit” button and paid your application fee. Until that moment, what you put in your application is completely private and only visible to you. So, feel free to experiment with your essays and make as many changes as you want. No one is judging you (except maybe your inner critic).
Does submitting my Common App to one college lock it for others?
Not quite! When you submit your application to one college, you can “unlock” your essay (and other sections) to make any necessary edits. Then, you can submit the updated version to another college. This is a handy feature, because it allows you to tailor your application to the specific requirements and preferences of each school.
What if I miss a deadline?
Ah, the dreaded deadline. If you miss the deadline for a particular college, you’ll have to contact them directly. Some colleges might accept late applications, but others might not. It really depends on the specific school and their policies.
What about the Coalition Application?
Yes, the Coalition Application also has a “lock” feature, but it’s a bit different. The Coalition Application has a “Locker” where you can upload various documents, like PDFs, videos, or even a portfolio of your artwork. Once you’ve submitted your application, you can still access and edit the contents of your Locker.
So, what’s the best way to avoid Common App submission nightmares?
Here’s a few tips to help you navigate the Common App labyrinth:
- Plan ahead: Don’t wait until the last minute to start your application. Give yourself plenty of time to complete everything, including proofreading and editing.
- Be mindful of deadlines: Keep track of all the deadlines for the colleges you’re applying to and set reminders.
- Proofread carefully: Make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors in your application.
- Double-check your information: Go over everything to make sure it’s accurate and complete, especially your contact information.
- Submit early, submit often: If you’re applying to multiple colleges, submit your application to one school as soon as possible. This will give you more time to edit and submit your application to other schools.
Need some extra help?
If you’re still feeling lost in the world of Common App submissions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your guidance counselor or college admissions office. They can provide valuable guidance and support, helping you navigate the application process with confidence.
And remember, even if you stumble a little along the way, don’t get discouraged. The college application process is tough, but with a little effort and a lot of perseverance, you’ll reach your goals. Good luck!
If you need further help, answer or research resources about the Common App, connect with us at JobLoving Community!