Step-by-Step Guide: How to Write Additional Information on Common App

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Write Additional Information on Common App

Are you applying to colleges using the Common Application (Common App)? Adding the maximum amount of information can increase your chances of acceptance. However, knowing what to include in the Additional Information section can be tricky. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of this section.

What is the Additional Information Section?

The Additional Information section is your opportunity to provide context or explanation that is not included elsewhere in your application. This section can be used to explain disciplinary actions, family emergencies, medical issues, or to discuss personal circumstances that have impacted your academic performance.

How to Write in the Additional Information Section:

1. Keep it concise: Admissions officers read thousands of applications. Stick to the essentials and avoid rambling.
2. Be honest: Honesty is crucial, and it is better to provide an honest explanation for a challenge than to deceive your reviewers with convoluted language.
3. Be positive: It’s important to discuss challenges, but focus on how you have overcome them or have grown as a person.
4. Proofread: Double-check your work for grammar and spelling errors. Consider having someone else review it.

Things to Include

1. Academic struggles: If there were extenuating circumstances that impacted your academic performance, such as a medical condition or family emergency, explain them in this section.
2. Activities outside of school: If you are passionate about an extracurricular activity but do not have the space to discuss it in the activity section, this is the place to elaborate.
3. Employment or internships: If you have had significant experience in the workforce or completed an internship, this can provide valuable context.
4. Additional accolades: If you have received significant awards or recognition, provide more detail in this section.

Things to Avoid

1. Repetition: Do not repeat information from other sections.
2. Excuses: Avoid making excuses for a poor academic performance, instead explain how you have grown and learned from your challenges.
3. Controversial topics: It’s best to avoid discussing political or religious beliefs that could negatively impact your application.
4. Jargon: Avoid using professional jargon that may not be familiar to admissions readers.

Conclusion

The Additional Information section is a valuable opportunity to provide context and explanations that might not fit elsewhere in your application. Keep it concise, honest, positive, and proofread. Remember to discuss academic struggles, extracurricular activities, employment or internships, or additional accolades. Avoid repetition, excuses, controversial topics, and professional jargon. By following these guidelines, you can make the most of this valuable section.

Speech tips:

Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.