Every year, I wait with great anticipation for the Common App’s “What’s New” webinar for counselors like me. As a journalist since high school, I like to announce breaking news, especially news that sets my juniors in motion. This year, there aren’t any drastic changes, so we know what the Class of 2027 can start writing (activity list + main essay).
Highlights:
- Main Essay prompts are the same as last year. I reported on that within days of the announcement here, along with my tips on how to tackle them. (Also – check out my interview with 4 admissions reps, loaded with tips for your writing here).
- The Activity List is getting some minor updates, but the tight character limits remain the same (Position – 50; Organization – 100, Description – 150). This year, the section is renamed “Activities & Experiences”; you’ll see some new category drop-down choices; and the Position/Leadership line is no longer mandatory (now optional).
- Each year, they try to clarify instructions & resources, and the fee waiver policies will be communicated more prominently.
- Testing Updates: Students can now self-report English proficiency test scores (Duolingo English, Pearson Test of English, TOEFL iBT). Three AP Subject Tests are also added for self-reporting: AP Business with Personal Finance, AP Cybersecurity, AP Networking.
Trends:
- The number of applications (& applications per student) continues to increase each year. In this past cycle, with more than 1.5 million applicants (+2% over last year) and 10.7 million applications (+6% over last year), it continues to be competitive. That means your application needs to be AWESOME to increase your chances. How? Find & communicate your WOW FACTORS throughout. The average application read time is 10 minutes, and there’s a LOT to evaluate, so it’s the applicant’s job to make sure it’s easy to process. No red flags or road bumps! If something needs to be explained, use the Additional Information section to provide context.
Account Rollover:
- You CAN (but don’t have to) start your Common App now, but ONLY enter information that WILL roll over (detailed below). Any college-specific information will NOT roll over, and remember that supplements you see in the Common App now are definitely subject to change 8/1 when the application launches for the Class of 2027. Even college websites lag in updating supplements, so unless you see “2026-27,” the prompts may not be updated.
- IF you start your Common App now, here’s what will and won’t roll over:
Amy’s Advice:
- Common App – You can start your Common App now if you’d like, but remember it goes offline on July 28 and updates/relaunches August 1, so you want to double-check anything you already entered.
- Main Essay – The prompt you answer DOES NOT MATTER. How you answer it does! This isn’t an English paper with a rubric. It’s an opportunity to showcase your creativity, authenticity, and awesome writing skills. Here’s a look at who answered which prompt last year in case you’re curious:
- Activity List – A frequently underused opportunity to showcase YOUR impact in many ways. There’s a TINY amount of space to communicate each activity, so EVERY character counts! Use this space strategically to show colleges where you made a difference in your school, community, and world!
- Your high school information – You’ll be asked for class size, rank (if applicable), etc., so gather that before school ends if possible so you can apply in August if you’re ready. Also, have you asked 2 teachers for recommendations? If not, get that done! Here’s a great worksheet from the Common App that guides you to collect information you need to apply to college.
That’s all for now! Hope this is helpful. Class of 2027…it’s YOUR time to shine!!!
