The Common Application, often called the Common App, is an online platform that streamlines the college application process by allowing students to apply to multiple colleges through a single system. Over 1,100 colleges and universities around the world accept the Common App, including all eight Ivy League institutions and many public universities in the U.S. While some schools use other application systems, such as the University of California’s proprietary application or the Coalition Application, the Common App remains the most widely used platform in the country.
What’s New in the 2025–26 Common App
The Common App continues to grow, with 1.5 million first-year applicants and over 10 million applications submitted during the 2024–25 cycle. To support this growth, several updates are being introduced for the upcoming year. Here are some of the key changes:
New User Interface: A refreshed design launching in August 2025 will improve usability and accessibility.
Essay Prompts: No changes for 2025–26 — prompts remain the same.
Additional Information: Word limit reduced from 650 to 300 to reflect actual usage trends.
Community Disruption Prompt: Now called “Challenges and Circumstances,” reflecting broader life events beyond COVID-19.
New Section – Responsibilities and Circumstances: Covers household responsibilities and significant personal circumstances.
Citizenship Question Updates: More inclusive response options added (e.g., DACA, TPS, undocumented students).
ACT Self-Reporting: Students can report ACT scores with or without science and/or writing.
Self-Reported Transcripts: Increasing use of Courses & Grades and STARS platforms across colleges.
These changes aim to make the application more accessible, inclusive, and representative of each student’s full story
Common App Timeline for College Application
The Common App opens each year on August 1, but students can create an account earlier and begin entering general information, which will roll over into the new cycle.
Early Action and Early Decision deadlines are typically around November 1, while Regular Decision deadlines usually fall on or around January 1. It’s essential to check each college’s specific deadlines, as they can vary.
Smart Tips to Prepare for the 2025–26 College Application Season
Applying to college through the Common App can feel overwhelming, but careful planning can make the process more manageable. Start early by collecting essential materials such as transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters. Since you can view the personal essay prompts ahead of time, use that head start to begin drafting and revising your essay before the application opens.
Familiarize yourself with the updates to the 2025–26 application so you can take full advantage of new features and avoid confusion. For example, if you’ve had significant family responsibilities or personal challenges, use the new “Responsibilities and Circumstances” section to help colleges understand your background and time commitments. Always double-check deadlines and requirements for each school on your list, and consider working with a counselor to stay organized and refine your responses. With a thoughtful approach and awareness of the latest changes, the Common App can help you present your best self to a wide range of colleges.
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