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Your future starts here

Apply to college for the first time or transfer to complete your degree. Navigate your entire college application journey with Common App.

Your future starts here

Apply to college for the first time or transfer to complete your degree. Navigate your entire college application journey with Common App.

Explore more than 1,000 colleges on Common App

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Plan your future

Get connected with everything you need to apply to college, research financial aid and scholarships, and get advice from counselors, advisors and mentors.

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Why college matters

College is worth it. Your future is worth it. You are worth it.

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Paying for college

There are lots of options available to you. We can help you find them.

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Your college roadmap

The path may seem unclear. We can help you find your way.

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Your complete college
application guide

It’s go time — and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Here’s where you’ll find what you need to take that next step towards a brighter future.

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Featured research

A panel discussion at Common App Illuminate event.

Connect, learn, share

Illuminate 2025: Delivering Value Together
Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel
June 10 – 12, 2025

Is college worth it? It’s not a new question. But as financial, political, legal, and social pressures encroach upon our profession, it’s joined by another: Is the work worth it? We believe the answer to both remains a resounding yes.

Common App members, join enrollment leaders and admissions professionals—be part of this meaningful discussion.

Our keynote speaker, Professor Tressie McMillan Cottom, is a celebrated sociologist, cultural critic, and award-winning writer. Careful and poetic, Dr. Cottom explores the everyday culture of big ideas like racism, sexism, inequality, and oppression by giving us the language to live better lives. As a fierce advocate for expanding access to education, we are honored to welcome Dr. Cottom.
 

Register
A panel discussion at Common App Illuminate event.

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