How To Add Letters Of Rec To Common App

How to Add Letters of Rec to Common App: A Guide for the Perplexed and Procrastinating

Let’s face it, applying to college is a marathon, not a sprint. You’ve got essays to write, test scores to submit, and, oh yeah, those pesky letters of recommendation to gather.

Fear not, my fellow applicants! This guide will walk you through the process of adding those crucial letters of recommendation to the Common App, and hopefully, make you laugh along the way (because, let’s be honest, navigating the Common App can feel like a comedic circus act).

First things first, let’s answer your burning question:

How exactly do you add those letters of rec to Common App?

Well, buckle up, because the answer is a little less exciting than a rollercoaster ride, but trust me, it’s a smooth and relatively painless process.

The Common App’s “Recommenders and FERPA” section is your BFF.

Think of it as your one-stop shop for all things recommendation, including inviting your teachers and counselors, tracking their progress, and updating any information if needed.

Step-by-Step Guide for Adding Letters of Rec to Common App:

1. Log into your Common App account. You wouldn’t want to accidentally send your grandparents a love letter instead of your recommendation, right?
2. Navigate to the “My Colleges” tab. This is where you select your college choices and manage all the lovely details associated with them.
3. Click on the “Recommenders and FERPA” section. Here’s where the magic happens.
4. Select the college you want to add the recommendation to. Remember, you’ll need to invite your recommender to each college you’re applying to, even if they’re sending the same letter. Sigh The joys of college applications.
5. Click the “Add Recommender” button. This is where you’ll enter your recommender’s information, including their email address.
6. Select the type of recommender. Is it a teacher, counselor, or another professional? Choose wisely!
7. Customize the recommendation request. Craft a personalized message for your recommender, thanking them in advance for their time and support. It’s the least you can do, right?
8. Click “Send Request.” Your recommender will receive an email invitation with instructions on how to submit their recommendation.

Now, let’s address some common concerns:

Q: What if I need to update my recommender’s information?

A: No worries! The Common App makes it super easy. Just go to “Recommenders and FERPA,” locate your recommender, and update their information. It’s like changing an address, but with less stress.

Q: Can I still upload letters of recommendation after the application is finalized?

A: Yes, you can! The Common App has a built-in grace period where you can add or update recommendations even after submitting your application. This is a lifesaver for those who procrastinate (like a certain writer who’s currently writing this blog post…).

Q: Can I add a letter of recommendation after submitting my application?

A: This is where things get a little tricky. You can definitely add a recommender, even after submitting your application. However, you’ll need to contact the college directly to request it, as the Common App won’t automatically accommodate this change.

Q: Can I add a letter of recommendation for a specific school, even after the application is finalized?

A: Yes, you can! The Common App has a built-in grace period where you can add or update recommendations even after submitting your application. This is a lifesaver for those who procrastinate (like a certain writer who’s currently writing this blog post…).

Q: What if my recommender forgot to submit the letter?

A: Don’t panic! You can send a friendly reminder to your recommender, but be patient. They’re probably juggling a million other responsibilities. If they’re still having trouble, you can contact the college directly for assistance.

Q: What if my recommender is having trouble uploading their recommendation?

A: The Common App has a handy-dandy “Help” section with FAQs and troubleshooting tips. If you’re still stuck, you can always reach out to the Common App support team.

Now, let’s get a little more specific about navigating the Common App:

How to Add Letters of Recommendation From Naviance:

Naviance is a fantastic tool for managing college applications, and thankfully, it integrates seamlessly with the Common App.

1. Log into your Naviance account.
2. Go to the “Colleges” tab.
3. Select the college you want to add the recommendation to.
4. Find the “Recommenders” section.
5. Click “Add Recommender” and enter your recommender’s information.

Pro Tip: If your recommender is already listed in Naviance, you can simply select their name from the dropdown menu. This can save you some time and effort.

Important Note: Make sure you get your recommender’s permission before adding them to Naviance or the Common App. It’s good etiquette and shows that you respect their time and privacy.

How to Add Letters of Recommendation from Your School’s Website:

Some schools have their own online application systems that are separate from the Common App. If this is the case, you’ll need to follow the instructions provided by your school.

1. Visit your school’s website and navigate to the “College and Career” or “Counseling” section.
2. Look for the instructions on how to add letters of recommendation.
3. Follow the steps outlined by your school.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your school counselor or guidance office for help.

A Few Last Words of Wisdom:

Remember, letters of recommendation are an essential part of your college application.

Here are a few more tips to help you gather the best possible recommendations:

• Give your recommenders plenty of notice. They’ll need time to write a thoughtful and detailed letter.
• Provide your recommenders with a resume, transcript, and any other relevant information. This will help them write a more informed and comprehensive letter.
• Meet with your recommenders to discuss your college goals and aspirations. This will give them a better understanding of your strengths and interests.
• Express your gratitude to your recommenders. A simple thank-you note or email goes a long way.

In Conclusion:

Adding letters of recommendation to the Common App might seem like a daunting task, but with this guide, you’ll be well on your way to submitting a complete and competitive application.

Remember: It’s okay to ask for help if you need it. Your school counselor, guidance office, and the Common App support team are all there to support you.

And if you still have questions or need further help, don’t hesitate to reach out to the JobLoving community! We’re here to help you navigate the world of college applications and make the process a little less stressful. You’ve got this!