As a high school student applying to colleges, you're likely familiar with the Common App, a standardized application used by over 900 colleges and universities. While the Common App provides a comprehensive platform for showcasing your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities, the Additional Information section can be a valuable opportunity to provide context, clarify any issues, or highlight unique aspects of your application.
The Additional Information section is optional, but it can be a powerful tool in helping admissions committees better understand your application. Here are five ways to use the Common App Additional Information section effectively:
1. Explain a Gap in Your Education or Work History
If you've taken a gap year, been homeschooled, or have a non-traditional educational background, the Additional Information section can help clarify any gaps in your education or work history. Use this space to explain your situation, highlighting any relevant skills or experiences you gained during this time. For example, if you took a gap year to travel or work, describe how these experiences shaped your perspectives and goals.
2. Provide Context for Academic Challenges or Achievements
If you've faced academic challenges, such as a learning disability or a family crisis, the Additional Information section can provide context for any fluctuations in your grades or academic performance. Conversely, if you've achieved remarkable academic success, such as earning a high GPA or completing advanced coursework, use this space to highlight your accomplishments and explain how they demonstrate your academic abilities.
3. Highlight Unique Talents or Experiences
The Additional Information section can be an opportunity to showcase unique talents or experiences that don't fit into other sections of the application. For example, if you're a skilled artist, musician, or writer, use this space to describe your creative pursuits and how they've helped you develop skills or perspectives that will enrich your college experience.
4. Address Disciplinary Actions or Personal Challenges
If you've faced disciplinary actions, such as suspension or expulsion, or have experienced personal challenges, such as a mental health issue or a family crisis, the Additional Information section can provide a platform for explaining the circumstances and how you've grown from the experience. Be honest and take responsibility for your actions, while also highlighting any steps you've taken to learn from the experience and move forward.
5. Showcase Your Passion for a Particular Field or Industry
Finally, the Additional Information section can be an opportunity to showcase your passion for a particular field or industry. If you've pursued internships, volunteer work, or research projects related to your desired major or career, use this space to describe your experiences and how they've deepened your understanding of the field.
In conclusion, the Common App Additional Information section can be a valuable tool in helping admissions committees better understand your application. By using this space effectively, you can provide context, clarify any issues, or highlight unique aspects of your application that showcase your strengths and passions.
Gallery of Common App Additional Information Examples
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Common App Additional Information section?
+The Additional Information section provides a platform for applicants to provide context, clarify any issues, or highlight unique aspects of their application.
How long should my Additional Information response be?
+There is no word limit for the Additional Information section, but aim to keep your response concise and focused, ideally no more than 1-2 pages.
Can I use the Additional Information section to explain a low GPA or poor grades?
+Yes, the Additional Information section can provide context for any academic challenges or difficulties you've faced, but be honest and take responsibility for your actions.
By using the Common App Additional Information section effectively, you can showcase your strengths, passions, and unique qualities, helping admissions committees better understand your application and potential for success in college.