How Long Does It Take to Fill Out the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Not a Sprint)
Let’s be honest, college applications are about as much fun as a root canal. You’re bombarded with essays, transcripts, and recommendation letters, all while trying to maintain a social life and not completely lose your sanity. But amidst the chaos, one question looms large: How long does it take to fill out the Common App?
Well, my dear reader, buckle up because the answer is… it depends.
Think of the Common App like a buffet. You can grab a quick bite and be on your way, or you can spend hours savoring every dish and loading up your plate. The same applies to the Common App – your time commitment will vary based on how many schools you’re applying to, how meticulously you craft your essays, and whether you’re a procrastinator or a planner.
The Common App: A Quick Overview
The Common App, lovingly referred to as “The Big One” by stressed-out seniors, is a standardized application accepted by hundreds of colleges and universities across the United States. It’s essentially a one-stop shop for your basic information, academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and that dreaded essay.
The Myth of the Speedy Application
While some might tell you the Common App is a breeze, don’t be fooled. The quick and easy part is the basic information – your name, address, phone number – stuff you probably know by heart (unless you’re a master of forgetfulness, in which case, good luck). However, the real time-suckers are the essays and supplements.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
- The Common App Itself: This should take you around 1-3 hours, assuming you have all your information readily available. Think of it as a digital form, but with more soul-searching questions.
- The Essays: Ah, the essays. The bane of every college applicant’s existence. Expect to spend 20-30 hours writing and revising your essays. This includes brainstorming, researching, drafting, editing, and polishing. It’s not a process for the faint of heart.
- The Supplements: These are additional essays or questions specific to individual colleges. They can be a real wildcard in terms of time commitment, ranging from a quick 15-minute write-up to a full-blown essay marathon.
- Letters of Recommendation: You’ll need to request recommendations from teachers, counselors, and possibly other mentors. This part often involves a bit of pre-planning and communication, as you’ll need to give your recommenders ample time to write their glowing reviews.
- Other Materials: Don’t forget about transcripts, test scores, and any other documents required by the colleges you’re applying to. Make sure you have everything organized and readily available to avoid last-minute panic attacks.
The Bottom Line: Plan for the Worst, Hope for the Best
So, how long does it REALLY take? A good rule of thumb is to allow six to eight weeks to complete the entire application process, including essays, supplements, and all the necessary paperwork.
But here’s the thing: It’s always better to overestimate than underestimate. You don’t want to be scrambling to meet deadlines at the last minute, especially when your mental state is already resembling a melting ice cream cone.
Procrastination: The College Application’s Worst Enemy
We’ve all been there – the lure of Netflix and procrastination is strong. But when it comes to college applications, procrastination is your worst enemy. The longer you wait, the more stressful the process becomes, and trust me, you don’t want to add unnecessary stress to your already chaotic life.
Here’s a Pro Tip: Start your applications early! The summer before your senior year is an excellent time to begin brainstorming essay topics, researching colleges, and gathering all the necessary materials. You can even start filling out the basic information on the Common App, which will ease the burden later on.
Embrace the Journey, Don’t Fear the Process
Filling out the Common App is a marathon, not a sprint. It will test your patience, your creativity, and your ability to resist the temptation to binge-watch “The Office” (though we all know it’s a worthy endeavor). But remember, it’s a journey, not a destination.
Take your time, stay organized, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. After all, you’re not alone in this. There are countless resources available, from college counselors to online forums, to guide you through this process.
The Takeaway: Don’t Sweat It (Too Much)
College applications are a big deal, but they don’t have to be a source of constant anxiety. With proper planning, organization, and a healthy dose of self-compassion, you can conquer the Common App and navigate the college application process with a smile on your face (or at least a less stressed frown).
Need More Help?
If you’re still feeling overwhelmed or have any further questions about the Common App or college applications in general, don’t hesitate to connect with us at JobLoving! We’re here to help you navigate this exciting, yet daunting, journey.