Education Guide

Common App 2025: Tips, Mistakes to Avoid, and How to Stand Out

The Common App opens August 1. Learn how to avoid common mistakes and make your application stand out from the competition.

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DeepCampus Editorial Team

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Common App 2025: Tips, Mistakes to Avoid, and How to Stand Out

The Common App is used by over 1,000 colleges. Making mistakes can hurt your chances at multiple schools simultaneously.

Key Mistakes to Avoid

Essay Mistake

s

  • Grammatical and spelling errors
  • Plagiarism (applications are checked)
  • Listing achievements instead of telling a story
  • Focusing too much on other people
  • Application Mistake

    s

  • Not previewing after copy-pasting
  • Waiting until the last minute
  • Using the same essay without customizing
  • Putting activity awards in the Honors section
  • Professional Mistake

    s

  • Unprofessional email address
  • Controversial social media posts
  • Skipping optional essays
  • Tips for Success

  • Start early - no downside to beginning in August
  • Pick an essay prompt that makes you feel something
  • Keep it authentic and use storytelling
  • Edit multiple times and get feedback
  • Preview everything before submitting
  • How DeepCampus Helps

    Our Essay Brainstorming tool helps you develop compelling topics while keeping your authentic voice.

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