Top Common App Mistakes to Avoid

Applying to college can be a stressful process, and the last thing you want is to make simple mistakes .

Unfortunately, many students fall into common traps when completing their Common App, and these errors can leave a less-than-ideal impression on admissions officers. To help you avoid these pitfalls, watch our for these common mistakes:

1. Using Titles on Essays

Your Common App essay is already short...adding a title eats up valuable space that could be used to showcase your story and reflection. Admissions officers don’t expect titles and often find them unnecessary. Instead, dive straight into the heart of your essay. Every word should count.

Solution: Skip the title and get right to your story. Use your opening line to grab attention and introduce the theme of your essay immediately.

2. Overusing Quotations in Essays

Many students make the mistake of filling their essays with quotations or dialogue, leaving little room for self-reflection. Admissions officers want to hear your unique perspective, not a retelling of someone else’s words. A short, meaningful quote might work if it’s relevant, but the focus should always be on your voice and experiences.

Solution: Limit quotations to a minimum, and make sure the majority of the essay reflects your thoughts, interpretations, and growth.

3. Using Abbreviations and Jargon

It’s easy to assume that admissions officers will understand abbreviations or jargon used in your activities or awards. However, it’s important to spell out acronyms and provide context for anything that may not be immediately clear. This ensures that your achievements are fully understood and appreciated.

Solution: Spell out abbreviations and acronyms the first time you mention them. For example, instead of just writing "PPE," explain it as "Philosophy, Politics, and Economics" on first reference.

4. Submitting Extra Letters of Recommendation

While some colleges allow additional letters of recommendation, this can backfire. More letters mean more for admissions officers to sift through, and they often add unnecessary bulk to your application. Sending too many can make it seem like you’re overcompensating for weaknesses in your application.

Solution: Submit only the required number of letters of recommendation. Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide specific, detailed insight into your strengths.

5. Listing Pay-to-Play Summer Programs

College summer programs can be a great experience, but listing them on your application can sometimes be seen as "pay-to-play" by admissions officers - especially if they come with a hefty price tag. Additionally, listing a summer program from a specific college may signal that you're more interested in that school than in others, which can lead to yield concerns.

Solution: If you attended a summer program, focus on what you learned and how it impacted you rather than simply listing the name. Highlight any skills or experiences that demonstrate your growth and maturity.

6. Future Plans Not Matching Your Major Choice

Many students don’t realize that misalignment between their major choice and future career plans can create confusion for admissions officers. For example, if you list "Business" as a career interest but are applying as an English major, this might raise red flags. Colleges want to see a clear connection between your academic interests and career aspirations.

Solution: Ensure that your future plans align with the major you’re applying for. If you’re unsure about your future career, select a path that complements your academic interests.

7 . Inputting Unofficial Class Rank or GPA

Some students make the mistake of entering a class rank or GPA that isn’t officially listed on their transcript. This can cause confusion and may even hurt your application if it doesn’t match your school’s official records.

Solution: Only report your GPA or class rank if it’s officially listed on your transcript. If your school doesn’t provide one, indicate "None" in the respective fields on the Common App.

8. Failing to Mention Shared Leadership Positions

If you held a leadership position alongside someone else (like Co-President or Co-Captain), it’s important to acknowledge that it was a shared role. Failing to do so can give the impression of inflating your achievements.

Solution: Be honest and indicate if a leadership position was shared. This doesn’t take away from your accomplishments and shows integrity.

9. Reporting Low AP Scores

While reporting high AP scores can strengthen your application, listing lower scores can work against you—especially if they’re in subjects related to your intended major. Remember, AP scores are rarely required for admission, so it’s okay to leave them out if they don’t reflect your best work.

Solution: Only report AP scores that will enhance your application. If your scores don’t align with your strengths, it’s better to omit them.

10. Neglecting Proofreading and Editing

Typos, grammar mistakes, and other errors can distract admissions officers from the content of your application. Even small mistakes can create a negative impression, signaling carelessness or a lack of effort.

Solution: Proofread your application multiple times, and ask a trusted teacher, mentor, or family member to review it as well. Make sure all sections are complete, and verify that everything has been submitted properly.

11. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Submit

The Common App’s system can experience slowdowns or even crashes as deadlines approach, so waiting until the last minute to submit your application is risky. Missing the deadline, even by a few minutes, could cost you an opportunity at your dream school.

Solution: Set a personal deadline at least a few days before the actual deadline to avoid technical issues and last-minute panic. Double-check everything well in advance to make sure nothing is missing.

Our 4-year program ensures that you submit a strong, error-proof application to your dream school! Find out more about how we can help here!

Best of luck,
Melina Kazanas

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