Apply To College With Common App | Your Future Starts Here

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Apply to college for the first time or transfer to complete your degree. Navigate your entire college application journey with Common App.

Start your applicationYour future starts here

Apply to college for the first time or transfer to complete your degree. Navigate your entire college application journey with Common App.

Start your application

Explore more than 1,000 colleges on Common App

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Illuminate 2026

50 years of expanding access to higher education

Common App is celebrating 50 years! Since 1975, we've helped millions of students navigate college admissions and unlock opportunity. View stories of our journey or share your own and help shape the future.

Celebrate with us

Plan your future

Get connected with everything you need to apply to college, research financial aid and scholarships, and get advice from counselors, advisors and mentors.

Why college matters

College is worth it. Your future is worth it. You are worth it.

Learn why college matters

Paying for college

There are lots of options available to you. We can help you find them.

Learn how to pay for college

Your college roadmap

The path may seem unclear. We can help you find your way.

Learn how to get to college

Your complete collegeapplication guide

It’s go time — and we’ll be with you every step of the way. Here’s where you’ll find what you need to take that next step towards a brighter future.

First-year student guideTransfer student guide

Featured research

January 1 deadline update

January 15, 2026

Independent applicants for transfer admission: Contexts, experiences, and application portfolios

January 29, 2026

Fiscal Year 2025 Annual report

2026

January 1 deadline update

January 15, 2026

Independent applicants for transfer admission: Contexts, experiences, and application portfolios

January 29, 2026

Fiscal Year 2025 Annual report

2026

January 1 deadline update

January 15, 2026

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See more research

News and updates

Counselor Conversations with Common App, Spring 2026

January 22, 2026

Championing transfer students’ journeys through early awareness

October 21, 2025

How Common App and EdVisorly are exploring the use of AI to simplify the college admissions process

October 14, 2025

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For counselors and recommenders

Thanks to you, your students aren’t alone. We’re here to make sure you’re not either. 

Access counselor resources

Become a member college

We strive for access, equity, and integrity in the college admission process. Your membership makes it all possible.

View membership benefits

Events and webinars

24Feb

Counselor conversations with Common App: International student supporters

Join our team and a counselor from the Singapore American School to explore resources and discuss the international applicant experience.

Virtual17Mar

Counselor conversations with Common App: Account rollover

With account rollover, students can start Common App before August 1. Join our Education & Training team to learn how to help rising seniors get a head start.

Virtual22Mar

SACAC 2026

The SACAC Annual Conference celebrates its 60th Anniversary with the theme Opening Doors. Changing Lives. Join admission professionals for a milestone event focused on networking and professional growth.

Mobile, AL12Apr

TACAC 2026

The TACAC Conference unites admission professionals to share strategies and support the next generation of Texas leaders.

McAllen, TX

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See all events

Have a question?

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