Pros and cons of Coalition Application colleges?

I've been researching the Coalition Application and the colleges that accept it. What are some key differences between colleges that use the Coalition App and those that don't? Are there any advantages or disadvantages to applying to these schools through the Coalition platform?

The Coalition Application is an alternative to the Common Application, and its intent is to make the college application process more accessible for underrepresented students. Colleges that accept the Coalition Application come from diverse backgrounds and offer a wide range of programs, so it's essential to research each school individually. Here's a breakdown of some key pros and cons of using the Coalition Application:

Pros:

1. Holistic approach: The Coalition Application emphasizes a whole-person approach when evaluating candidates, allowing students to showcase their unique qualities and talents beyond test scores and GPA.

2. Built-in college planning tools: The Coalition platform offers various resources, such as the Collaboration Space and Locker, to help students plan for college throughout all four years of high school.

3. Fee waivers: The Coalition Application has a more straightforward process for fee waivers compared to the Common Application, making it easier for students from low-income backgrounds to apply for fee waivers.

4. Flexibility: Some colleges that accept the Coalition Application may not be available on other platforms, such as the Common Application, giving students the flexibility to apply to a broader range of institutions.

Cons:

1. Limited number of colleges: While the Coalition Application is accepted by many high-quality institutions, it has fewer participating colleges compared to the Common Application, which has over 900 member colleges.

2. Additional work: If you're applying to a mix of schools that accept the Coalition Application and others that use different platforms, you may need to complete additional essays, questions, or supplemental materials.

3. Less familiar platform: The Coalition Application is newer than the Common Application and may be less familiar to school counselors, teachers, or students. This could result in fewer available resources or support for navigating the platform.

Ultimately, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of using the Coalition Application concerning your specific needs and college preferences. Research each college you're interested in applying to and determine if the Coalition Application is the best fit for your application process. Remember, the application platform itself won't make or break your chances of getting into a particular school, but rather the quality of your submitted content and how it aligns with the institution's values and expectations.