For aspiring student-athletes dreaming of competing and studying in the States, the journey to college is an exciting one. There are many steps on that journey and planning your countdown to life as a student-athlete is crucial, ticking off several checks on your to-do list along the way. Among the key steps in this process, one stands out as a universal gateway to over 1,000 universities: the Common Application, or simply, the Common App. Our latest blog helps you gain a better understanding of its role and importance, and helps you prepare as your Common App deadlines approach.
What is the Common App and Why is it so Important?
Think of the Common App as your one-stop shop for applying to a vast number of US colleges and universities. Instead of filling out separate, often repetitive, application forms for each institution, the Common App allows you to input your core information – personal details, academic history, extracurricular activities, and essays – once, and then submit it to multiple schools.
For prospective student-athletes, the Common App is particularly vital. While your athletic prowess and recruitment by coaches are key, gaining admission to your chosen university is ultimately an academic process. The Common App allows you to present a comprehensive picture of yourself beyond your athletic achievements, highlighting your academic strengths, character, and leadership qualities. A strong Common App submission can significantly bolster your overall application and open doors to a wider range of institutions.
Summer: Your Secret Weapon for Common App Success
With school out for the summer, it might be tempting to kick back and relax. However, for those eyeing a US college spot, these months are a golden opportunity to get a significant head start on your Common App, saving you from a last-minute scramble when the Fall deadlines loom.
Here's a breakdown of steps you can take to best prepare yourself:
1. Create Your Common App Account (and Familiarise Yourself!)
The Common App typically goes live for the new application cycle on August 1st. However, you can create an account much earlier and begin exploring the platform. Familiarise yourself with the different sections: Profile, Family, Education, Activities, Writing, and Courses & Grades. This initial exploration will demystify the process and highlight areas you need to gather information for.
2. Gather All Necessary Information & Documents
This is arguably the most time-consuming part, so tackling it now will be a huge relief later. Start compiling:
- Academic Records: A copy of your high school transcript (unofficial for now, official will be sent by your school), including details of courses taken, grades, and GPA.
- Standardized Test Scores: If you've taken the SAT or ACT, gather your scores and test dates. Even if a school is test-optional, having your scores ready is good practice.
- Parent/Legal Guardian Information: You'll need their educational background, occupation, and employment status.
- Academic Honors & Achievements: A comprehensive list of any awards, distinctions, or recognitions you've received.
3. Master Your Activities List
This section is your chance to showcase who you are outside of the classroom and beyond your sport. The Common App allows you to list up to 10 activities, each with a brief description (150 characters – so make every word count!). During the summer, brainstorm ALL your extracurriculars, including:
- Your primary sport(s) – detailing your commitment, achievements, and leadership roles.
- Other sports, clubs, societies, volunteering, part-time jobs, family responsibilities, and hobbies.
- For each activity, consider: what did you do? What skills did you develop? What impact did you have?
Remember, quality over quantity here. Colleges want to see depth of involvement and genuine passion.
4. Begin Brainstorming and Drafting Your Personal Essay
The Common App essay is your opportunity to tell your unique story, express your personality, and demonstrate your writing skills. The prompts for the upcoming cycle are usually released well in advance. Dedicate time this summer to:
- Review the Prompts: Read through them carefully and consider which one resonates most with your experiences and what you want to convey about yourself.
- Brainstorm Ideas: Don't limit yourself to obvious "heroic athlete" narratives. Think about moments of growth, challenges overcome, passions pursued, or insights gained.
- Start Drafting: Don't aim for perfection in your first draft. Just get your thoughts down on paper. The summer allows for multiple revisions, fresh perspectives, and time away from the essay to return with new ideas.
- Seek Feedback (Once Drafted): While not at school, you could ask a trusted family member or mentor to read your draft and offer constructive criticism.
5. Identify Potential Recommenders
While you won't formally request letters of recommendation through the Common App until later, use the summer to think about which teachers, coaches, or mentors know you best and can speak to your strengths, character, and potential. Consider who can highlight different facets of your personality and achievements. Making a mental note (or even a polite pre-enquiry) now can streamline the process when school starts.
Planning Your Approach: A Summer Checklist
- Late June - Early July:
- Create your Common App account.
- Familiarise yourself with all sections.
- Start gathering all necessary documents and information.
- Begin brainstorming ideas for your personal essay.
- Mid-Late July:
- Start drafting your personal essay.
- Work on populating your Activities List with detailed descriptions.
- Refine your college list – do all your target schools accept the Common App?
- Early August:
- Finalise your personal essay and activity descriptions.
- Input all your academic and personal information.
- Reach out to potential recommenders to give them a heads-up.
Resources to Help You Along the Way
The Common App website itself is an excellent resource, offering student guides, FAQs, and even essay prompt breakdowns. Additionally, there are numerous online resources and college admissions websites that provide further tips and examples.
Here at FirstPoint USA, we understand the complexities of the US college application process, especially for student-athletes. That's why we have in-house experts dedicated to guiding you every step of the way. Our Head of Admissions, Beth James, has extensive experience in this field and is on hand to provide support for FirstPoint athletes.
"The Common App can seem daunting at first, but by breaking it down into manageable steps and utilising the summer months effectively, you can approach the application process with confidence and reduce unnecessary stress," says Beth. "Remember, every piece of information you provide helps colleges build a complete picture of who you are and what you can bring to their campus, both academically and athletically. Don't be afraid to showcase your unique story."
For even more in-depth guidance, be sure to watch our recent webinar, hosted in partnership with the Common App, which breaks down everything you need to know: The Common App Explained: Everything You Need to Know
By taking these proactive steps this summer, you'll be well on your way to submitting a compelling Common App that truly reflects your potential, setting you up for success in your journey to becoming a student-athlete in the USA.
