What Does “Postgraduate” Really Mean on the Common App? (And Why It Might Be Confusing)
So, you’re filling out the Common App, and you’re staring at that “Postgraduate” checkbox for activities. You’re thinking, “Wait, I’m not applying to graduate school. What’s the deal?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This little box can be a source of confusion for many high school seniors.
Let’s break it down.
The Common App, for those who are living under a rock, is the ubiquitous application used by hundreds of colleges and universities. It’s designed to make the application process a little less painful (though, let’s be honest, it’s still a pain). One of the sections on this app asks you to list your extracurricular activities, and that’s where the “postgraduate” label comes into play.
Essentially, “postgraduate” on the Common App refers to activities you participated in after you graduated from high school. It’s not about applying to a graduate program; it’s about activities you did after you finished 12th grade. This could include: * Taking more classes at a private school, perhaps to beef up your academic profile. Think of this like a gap year but focused on academics. * Continuing extracurriculars like sports or clubs after graduation. Maybe you were a star athlete who decided to play another year with your old team before heading off to college. * Any other activity you did post-graduation. Maybe you volunteered at a local soup kitchen, landed a part-time job, or started a passion project. Think of it this way: The Common App wants a complete picture of your involvement, and this includes activities beyond high school. Why You Might Be Confused * The “Postgraduate” Label Is Misleading The term “postgraduate” is usually associated with studying for a master’s degree or doctorate. So, it’s understandable why you might be confused. * The Common App Isn’t Always Crystal Clear. Let’s face it, the Common App is a behemoth of an application, and sometimes its wording can be…well, let’s just say it’s not always the most user-friendly. The Takeaway: It’s All About Context The key here is to think about the context. If you’re filling out the Common App, the “postgraduate” box is all about your activities after high school graduation. Should You Check the “Postgraduate” Box? This depends on your situation. * You’re taking postgraduate classes at a private school? Check that box! This is a great way to showcase your commitment to academics. * You’re continuing an extracurricular you did in high school? Check the box and explain your involvement. * You did something else after graduation, like volunteer work or a part-time job? You can mention it, but it might not warrant its own entry in the activities section. You can always include it in an essay or other part of the application. A Few More Tips * Don’t Overthink It. The Common App is looking for a general picture of your involvement. Don’t stress too much about the technicalities of “postgraduate.” * Be Honest. If you didn’t do anything “postgraduate,” don’t make something up! Your time is better spent focusing on other parts of the application. * Focus on Quality, Not Quantity. The Common App isn’t about how many activities you can cram into the section. It’s about showcasing your passions and highlighting activities that demonstrate your skills and interests. The Bottom Line The “postgraduate” box on the Common App is about showing a complete picture of your extracurricular involvement, even beyond high school. Don’t be afraid to check it if it applies to you, but don’t stress over it if it doesn’t. Focus on showcasing your genuine interests and achievements, and you’ll be on your way to a successful application process. Need More Help? If you’re still confused about the Common App or any other aspect of the college application process, don’t hesitate to reach out! The JobLoving community is here to help you navigate the college application landscape with confidence. We offer resources, advice, and support every step of the way. Let’s get you admitted to your dream school!