A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Write Additional Information on Common App
If you are a high school student, Common App should be no stranger to you. It is an online platform that streamlines college applications and allows students to apply to various colleges through one portal. However, sometimes you might find yourself in a position where you need to provide additional information that is beyond what is required in the application. This guide is designed to help you navigate the process of adding extra information to your Common App.
Step 1: Identify the Need for Additional Information
The first step in writing additional information is to identify the need for it. This could arise for various reasons, such as:
– You want to explain certain circumstances that affected your grades or activities
– You want to highlight a particular talent or skill that you possess
– You want to provide further context to an activity or award that you have already mentioned in your Common App
– You want to explain a gap in your activities or education
Whatever the reason may be, it is important to identify it before proceeding with the next steps.
Step 2: Choose the Appropriate Section
Now that you have identified the need for additional information, the next step is to determine which section of the Common App is most appropriate for it. Some of the sections that could be relevant for additional information include:
– Additional Information section: This section allows you to provide any other relevant information that you were not able to include in the other sections.
– Writing section: If you want to provide an essay or story that explains your circumstances or highlights your talent, you can use the Writing section.
– Activities section: If you want to provide further context to your activities or awards, you can use the Activities section.
– Education section: If you want to explain any gaps in your education, you can use the Education section.
It is important to choose the appropriate section to ensure that your information is presented clearly and in context.
Step 3: Craft the Additional Information
Once you have identified the need for additional information and chosen the appropriate section, the next step is to craft the information itself. Here are some tips to help you:
– Be concise: Common App allows only 650 words per essay, so make sure to provide only the necessary details.
– Be specific: Use examples and anecdotes to illustrate your point and provide context.
– Be honest: It is important to be truthful while providing additional information. Avoid exaggerating or fabricating details.
– Follow a structure: Use a structure that makes your information easy to read and understand. Start with an introduction, provide supporting details in the body, and end with a conclusion.
Remember to proofread your additional information carefully to avoid errors or typos.
Step 4: Submit Your Additional Information
After crafting your additional information, the final step is to submit it to the appropriate section in your Common App. Review your submission carefully to ensure that the information is accurate and presented clearly.
Conclusion
Adding additional information to your Common App can be a daunting task, but with this step-by-step guide, you can easily navigate the process. Remember to identify the need for additional information, choose the appropriate section, craft the information carefully, and proofread your submission. By following these steps, you can improve your chances of getting accepted into your dream college.