Apply to college
Whether you're applying to college for the first time or transferring to complete your degree, here’s how to get started on your college application.
Apply to college
Whether you're applying to college for the first time or transferring to complete your degree, here’s how to get started on your college application.
What is Common App?
Each year, more than 1 million students apply to more than 1,000 Common App member colleges worldwide through our online college application platform.
Follow the steps below to get started, or visit our first-year and transfer application guides for more information.
How it works
1
Create your profile
Your Common App profile is your chance to shine. It’s everything you want a college or university to know about you - from your academic coursework to your extracurricular activities.
2
Add colleges to your list
Now you get to decide what’s most important to you in a college or university. Search through the characteristics and add colleges that align with them.
3
Gather requirements
Once you’ve decided where you want to apply, make a checklist of everything required. Each college and university is different, so make sure you stay on top of their application requirements.
4
Submit applications
Be sure to take a moment to celebrate this huge accomplishment! And remember to finish the academic year on a high note, apply for financial aid and prepare for the future.
The application guides
Now that you know what to expect from the process, you’re ready to apply. We’ve created two simple guides, one for first-year and one for transfer applicants.
For first-time students
Use this guide if you’re in high school and intend to apply as a first-time full-time freshman. It will walk you through the application from start to finish.
For transfer students
If you’re looking to transfer to a four-year institution or intend to restart your college journey, this is the place to get started.
Essay Prompts
The Common App essay prompts provide an amazing opportunity for you to tell colleges and universities about who you are and how you can contribute to your future campus experience.
Explore colleges on Common App
Search more than 1,000 member colleges and universities using Common App, including community colleges (as of January 2025). See application requirements, access virtual tours, learn about academic programs, testing policies, and student experience on campus. Get started today by adding colleges to your My Colleges tab in your application.
Get Common App on your phone
Take Common App with you where ever you go. Our mobile app helps you track your progress, stay on top of application requirements, and manage deadlines.
Download Common App for mobile
Whether you're at home or on the go, we're here to support you throughout your journey in applying to college.
Paying for college
Get guidance on affording college, including how to apply for financial aid, find scholarships, and fee waivers.
Start your college essay
Wondering how to approach the college essay? Common App's Scott Anderson offers his timely advice on sharing your personal and academic experience. Learn more on our blog.
Start your application today
Create a Common App account