How to Effectively Use the Additional Information Section on Common App: Examples Included
As college application deadlines approach, students are constantly seeking ways to better their chances of admission. The Common Application or Common App is the most widely used application system by American universities. It allows students to complete one application and apply to multiple schools simultaneously. One crucial but often overlooked component of the Common App is the Additional Information section.
The Additional Information section provides potential candidates an opportunity to provide additional information not included elsewhere in the application. In this guide, we will explore some of the most effective ways to utilize this section to maximize your chances of success.
Why Use the Additional Information Section?
The Additional Information section provides students with a space to expound on certain aspects of their lives that might not fit in other sections. For instance, if a student has experienced family difficulties that have affected their academic record, or they have been involved in community service, or perhaps suffered an illness that impeded academic progress. Such information could be a critical component in the admission process, and providing it in the Additional Information section makes it easier for admissions committees to consider all aspects of an individual’s life.
What to Include in the Additional Information Section
Students should use this section to their advantage by providing further information in an organized and well-articulated manner. You could use this section to:
1. Explain unusual circumstances: You can take advantage of this section to describe any unusual circumstances that may have affected your academic record. Explain challenges you’ve had to overcome and how they have made you stronger.
2. Elaborate on extracurricular activities: If you have been involved in extracurricular activities, make sure you use this section to elaborate on them.
3. Include any additional achievements: Have you won any awards or scholarships? This is an excellent opportunity to mention them.
4. Include any employment or volunteer work: If you have any relevant experience, which you think would enhance your application, then include them here.
5. Provide details about personal circumstances: You may have specific circumstances such as a learning disability or illness that may have affected your academic performance. This is an opportunity to discuss such situations and show how you have overcome them.
How to Write Your Additional Information Section
To make the most out of this section, you cannot just add irrelevant information. Be strategic in your approach, and adhere to the following guidelines:
1. Be concise and direct: Space is limited, so be sure to stay within the word count limit while still providing as much relevant information as possible.
2. Use a formal tone: This is an official document, and you should always use a formal tone to address admission committees.
3. Be clear and organized: Use bullet points or paragraphs to organize your thoughts and present the information in a clear and easy-to-understand manner.
4. Be truthful and honest: Admissions committees value authenticity and transparency, so ensure that all information provided is accurate and truthful.
Examples of Effective Additional Information Section Use
Here are some examples of how to use the Additional Information section effectively:
Example 1: If you have moved schools multiple times, you can take advantage of this space to describe your experience with each school and explain how the transitions affected your academic performance.
Example 2: If you have a medical condition, you could speak about how you have overcome the challenges posed by your illness and the measures you have taken to keep up with your academics.
Example 3: If you want to elaborate on a particular extracurricular activity, this is a chance to go in-depth to explain how it has impacted your life and the lessons you have learned from that experience.
In conclusion, the Additional Information section presents students with a chance to underline optional but helpful information that would not have been considered otherwise. It is critical to take advantage of this space by carefully curating relevant information that improves your overall application package. The Additional Information section might be an optional section, but it can be the crucial factor that makes the difference in the admission process.
