Lindsey Conger
College Counselor and Tutor
Moon Prep
Applying to college is both stressful and competitive, which is why it’s helpful to avoid common pitfalls that could weaken your application. Every detail counts, from showcasing your extracurricular activities to managing test scores and recommendations. To showcase yourself in the best light possible, consider these four common mistakes we see students making on the Common App.
- Not taking advantage of the activities section: Students have limited space to explain extracurricular activities on their college applications. You only have 150 characters to write about each activity, so you must use that space wisely. Quantify and qualify as much as possible. Do you spend hours sewing bears that you sell online? Include that! Don't leave something out just because it’s a hobby and not an organized school activity. It's also best to put your activities in order of importance.
- Overlooking test-optional admission policies: It's a common mistake to send low test scores when a college doesn't require them, as many more schools are now test-optional. If your scores are lower than the average admitted student, it might be to your disadvantage to report them. Additionally, you typically aren't required to send in AP test scores if you don't perform well, so always check each school’s policies before including your scores.
- Not explaining your unique circumstances: If unexpected circumstances prevented you from participating in extracurricular activities, include this information in your college applications. A student who has to babysit their younger siblings while their parents work or get a job to contribute to family finances won’t have the same extracurricular résumé as other students. Use the additional information section on the Common App to help admission officers understand your circumstances better.
- Waiting too late to collect your materials: You should never wait to start your applications so late that you’re filling them out in a rush. This includes the mistake of requesting teacher recommendations at the last minute. You should ask for letters of recommendation during the second semester of your junior year (especially if you’re applying for Early Action or Early Decision) or, at the very latest, first semester of senior year. Give your references a copy of your résumé so they know what to highlight, then follow up with them in a timely manner to ensure your recommendations are written and submitted in time.
By proceeding with caution and avoiding these common mistakes when applying to colleges, you’ll give yourself the best chance of getting accepted. Good luck!
You don’t have to fill out your Common App alone! Use our Easy Guide to Filling Out the Common Application to help you with the process.