Ready, Set, Go! Common App: Class of 2026!

PEAK Guide to the Common Application

What's New in the Common Application for 2025–2026? Key Updates and... Step-by-Step Instructions Every Student Should Know

As the college admissions journey continues to evolve, the Common Application is keeping pace. At PEAK Educational Consulting, we’re excited to guide students through the latest updates for the 2025–2026 cycle. Whether you're just beginning your college search or finalizing applications, these changes are designed to enhance your experience and help you shine.

1. A Fresh, User-Friendly Interface

Starting August 1, 2025, students will notice a brand-new visual design when they log into the Common App. The updated layout features left-side navigation, streamlined dashboards like "My Common Application" and "My Colleges," and improved mobile support. It's all about clarity, ease of use, and keeping students focused on their goals.

2. Essay Prompts Stay the Same

Great news for students preparing early: the seven personal statement prompts remain unchanged. The word count continues to range from 250 to 650 words, with most colleges recommending an essay length of 500 to 650 words. This consistency allows students to begin their drafts with confidence, knowing that the topics are here to stay.

3. Updates to Optional Writing Sections

Additional Information Section:This section now has a 300-word limit for first-year applicants and 1,500 characters for transfer students. It’s a space to offer context that doesn't fit elsewhere in your application, such as unique academic situations or significant achievements.

Challenges & Circumstances Section:Formerly called "Community Disruption," this prompt now welcomes a wider range of personal context. Students can discuss family dynamics, health issues, access to resources, or any barriers they’ve faced. This section still allows up to 250 words for first-year students and 1,250 characters for transfers.

4. More Community Colleges Join the Platform

The Common App continues to expand access by welcoming more community colleges. New additions like Lincoln Land, Oakton, and Triton Colleges offer more choices and greater flexibility for students exploring two-year pathways.

What This Means for You

These updates are rooted in accessibility, clarity, and personal expression. With no changes to essay prompts and a clearer, more supportive interface, now is the perfect time to start your college application journey with confidence.

Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Common App with Confidence:

1. Create Your Account

Start by visiting commonapp.org and selecting "Create an Account" under the student section. Choose your application year, enter your personal information, and save your login credentials somewhere secure.

2. Add Colleges to Your Dashboard

Once logged in, use the College Search tool to find and add the schools you’re applying to. Each college will appear in your dashboard and may include additional requirements such as school-specific questions or supplemental essays.

3. Fill Out the Common App Tab

This core section gathers your basic information and is shared with every college on your list. It includes:

• Profile (demographics and contact details)

• Family (household and parent/guardian information)

• Education (your high school history, coursework, and counselor contact)

• Testing (standardized test scores—if you choose to report them)

• Activities (your extracurriculars, jobs, and leadership roles)

• Writing (your Common App personal essay)

  
  

4. Write a Compelling Personal Essay

Choose one of the seven prompts provided and write an essay that reflects your voice, values, and journey. This is your chance to connect with admission officers on a deeper level. Need help? PEAK offers expert brainstorming, editing, and review support tailored to highlight your strengths authentically.

5. Complete Each College’s Requirements

Colleges often ask additional questions and may require supplemental essays. Be sure to follow specific instructions and meet individual deadlines.

6. Request Recommendations and Transcripts

Invite your recommenders directly through the application platform or check with your school counselor to utilize your high school's formats and procedures. Coordinate with your school counselor to send official transcripts.

7. Review and Submit

Double-check every section for accuracy. Ensure your essays are polished and proofread, all required documents are uploaded, and fees are paid. When you’re ready, submit your applications with confidence.

PEAK is here to help you navigate every aspect of the process. From essay coaching to application strategy, we tailor our services to support your unique goals. Let’s climb this mountain together, one step at a time.

Contact PEAK to schedule your free 30-minute discovery session or learn more about our personalized advising plans. Visit www.peakeducationalconsulting.com or reach out directly to Elizabeth Burgon at info@peakeducationalconsulting.com.