Applications. Which One?

There are several different college applications being used. But, don't worry! Research and develop your list of colleges and universities you want to apply to, and the schools tell you which application to use. Then, you simply follow the application instructions to complete the form.

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But, if you are really intrigued by the variety of applications, here is additional information about some of them.

Common Application - Opens Aug 1st

This is an online application used by more than 500 colleges and universities. It was designed to simplify the application process by providing a platform to input student profile, curriculum, testing and GPA information one time! The main essay is also used by all the schools - nice! However, there may be supplemental essays and/or short response questions required by individual schools.

For a list of the schools using the Common Application and more info click here

Universal College Application - Opens Aug 1st

This is an online application used by 34 colleges and universities. Similarly, the application requires students to input their profile information just once! Although the main essay will be shared by all schools, there may be individual school requirements which are stated in the application.

For a list of schools using the Universal College Application and more info click here

University of California (UC) Application - Opens Aug 1st

All nine campuses use the online UC Application. The application is completed once and the student has the option of sending the application to the UC campus(es) of their choice. The BIG change in 2016-2017 was the updated essay prompts. Students are given eight prompts and are required to respond to four of them.

For additional information about the UC schools and the application click here

California State University (CSU) Application - Opens Oct 1st

All 23 CSU campuses use the CSU Application. There is NO essay required, so admission is determined by the students' GPA and standardized test scores. Both the SAT and ACT are accepted.

For additional information about the CSU schools and application click here

Proprietary Applications

Many schools use their own application that is only available through the schools' website. It's reminiscent of the pencil and paper days when you completed one application for EACH school you applied to (okay, maybe some of you are too young to remember that.) This application process is completely acceptable, however, you will find yourself having to fill out each application separately.

Coalition Application

This is a new application launched in October 2016. There are 83 schools who offer this new online application as an option for students to use.

For additional information about the Coalition Application click here