Common App vs Coalition App

Alright folks, I'm starting to look ahead to applications. I've hear both about the Common App and the Coalition App - is one better than the other? What are the differences?

Both the Common Application (Common App) and the Coalition Application (Coalition App) are platforms that allow you to fill out one application and submit it to multiple colleges. Here are some key differences:

1. Colleges: Not all colleges use both platforms. The Common App is accepted by nearly 900 institutions, whereas the Coalition App is accepted by around 150. So, depending on where you want to apply, you may not have a choice about which to use.

2. Self-Reported Grades: Both applications allow you to self-report your high school grades. However, the Common App requires you to fill out a form that replicates your high school transcript, while the Coalition App lets you choose whether you want to self-report courses and grades.

3. Additional Information Section: Both applications have an additional information section where you can provide explanations or context for anything in your application. However, the Common App limits this to 650 words, while the Coalition App gives you 500 words.

4. Essay Prompts: Both applications have essay prompts, although they are slightly different. The Common App offers seven prompts, while the Coalition App gives you five. Both include a "topic of your choice" option.

5. Lockers and Collaboration Space: The Coalition App also offers a unique feature – the Locker. This is a private, online storage space for you to save essays, projects, or other pieces of work that you might want to include in your application. Additionally, there is a Collaboration Space where you can work on application pieces with mentors, teachers, or counselors. The Common App does not have these features.

Deciding which one to use often comes down to which colleges you're applying to and which application's interface and features you prefer. It won't directly impact your admissions chances, as colleges won't favor one type of application over another. Many students ultimately choose the platform that is accepted by the most colleges they are applying to, in order to streamline their application process.