Common App vs Coalition: Which to Choose?
Applying to college can be an overwhelming process. You need to collect academic information, test scores, and write a host of essays. However, the application process isn’t as difficult as it used to be because of the application platforms available to prospective students. The two most-used platforms are Common Application (Common App) and Coalition. These two platforms each have their pros and cons, and understanding those nuances are key to choosing the right platform to meet your needs.
What is the Common App?
The Common App is the most popular platform, used by over 1,000 colleges and universities in the US. Common App allows both first-year and transfer students to submit to up to 20 colleges using a centralized application. You submit personal and academic information as well as an essay which are all submitted to each college to which you apply. Common App also allows individual college supplemental essay prompts to be uploaded and sent the college.
What is the Coalition App?
Like the Common App, the Coalition App is a centralized platform that allows first-year and transfer students to apply to multiple colleges. It is used by over 150 colleges and universities in the US. However, Coalition aims to make college applications more accessible to underrepresented students. The colleges who use Coalition must meet certain criteria in terms of financial aid, tuition, and graduation rates.
— Common App vs. Coalition —
Common App Advantages
It is used by approximately 1,000 colleges and universities across the US and internationally.
The application process is streamlined, making it easy to manage multiple applications.
Counselors and recommenders can create a free account allowing them to collaborate on your application.
Multiple personal essay prompts are provided, allowing you to choose the prompt that is the best fit for you.
Common App Disadvantages:
The platform often crashes during peak application times which makes it stressful when facing an admissions deadline.
You are limited to applying to 20 schools.
Coalition Advantages:
Member colleges are known to provide a good amount of financial aid to accepted students, especially those in need or who are underrepresented.
Students can create an account as early as ninth grade allowing you plenty of time to research and narrow college lists.
It allows collaboration between parents, counselors, and teachers allowing people to give you critical feedback.
There are several personal essay prompts to choose from, so you can find one that will best represent you and your abilities.
Coalition Disadvantages:
It is not as well-known as the Common App. Only 150 colleges use it.
Students can only link with counselors and teachers if their high school has a paid account.
The interface is less intuitive than Common App meaning that users will need to be more technologically proficient to use it.
When it comes to choosing which application is right for you, sit and think about the information provided above. Check with your top choice colleges and see which application platforms they use, and talk to your school counselor. If you have further questions, or to learn more about our comprehensive application support, contact Ivy Link below!
