The Common App requires extensive personal information, including biographical details, educational history, and family background. Applicants must ensure that all information is accurate and complete, which can be time-consuming and requires careful attention to detail.

One of the most daunting aspects of the Common App is the personal essay. Applicants must write a compelling and well-crafted essay that effectively conveys their personality, experiences, and aspirations. This essay is a critical component of the application and often requires multiple drafts and significant reflection. Additionally, many colleges require supplemental essays, each with their own unique prompts and word limits, further complicating the process.

Applicants must provide detailed information about their extracurricular activities, including the nature of the activity, their role, and the time commitment involved. Balancing the need to highlight significant achievements and leadership roles while adhering to character limits can be challenging. Students must also prioritize and decide which activities best showcase their strengths and interests.

The Common App requires letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors. Coordinating these recommendations involves selecting appropriate recommenders, requesting letters well in advance, and ensuring that recommenders submit their letters on time. Managing this process can be stressful, especially if recommenders have multiple commitments.

Reporting standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, involves understanding the specific requirements of each college. Some schools require official score reports directly from the testing agency, while others accept self-reported scores initially. Navigating these requirements and ensuring that scores are sent correctly adds another layer of complexity.

Each college application often requires a separate fee, which can add up quickly. Some students may need to apply for fee waivers, which involves additional paperwork and eligibility verification. Managing these payments and ensuring all fees are paid on time can be cumbersome.

While the Common App aims to standardize the application process, many colleges have additional, school-specific requirements. These can include additional essays, portfolios for arts programs, or specific interview processes. Keeping track of and fulfilling these varied requirements requires meticulous organization.

The online nature of the Common App means that technical issues can arise, such as website downtimes, slow load times, and issues with uploading documents. These technical challenges can be frustrating and may cause delays, especially close to application deadlines.

Applicants must strategically present their achievements and experiences to align with the values and expectations of each college. This involves tailoring parts of the application to highlight specific strengths and ensure coherence in the overall narrative.