What is the Coalition Application? An Alternative to the Common App
Applying to college is a significant milestone in a student's life, and the process can often feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are tools designed to streamline this journey, one of which is the Coalition Application. While the Common Application is widely known, the Coalition Application offers an excellent alternative, particularly for students seeking a more inclusive and supportive college application experience. This guide will help you understand what the Coalition Application is, its benefits, and how to navigate it effectively.
What is the Coalition Application?
The Coalition for College, commonly known as the Coalition Application, is an online college application platform launched in 2016. It was created to increase access to higher education, especially for historically underrepresented groups, including low-income, under-resourced, and first-generation college students. Over 150 colleges and universities, many of which are highly selective, participate in the Coalition Application.
Key Features of the Coalition Application
Coalition Locker: The Coalition Locker is a unique digital storage space where students can save important documents, such as essays, recommendation letters, awards, and projects, throughout their high school years. This feature allows students to easily access and use these materials when they start their college applications.
Collaboration Space: This tool enables students to invite trusted mentors, counselors, teachers, and family members to provide feedback on their application materials. This collaborative approach helps students refine their applications and receive valuable guidance.
MyCoalition Counselor: The MyCoalition Counselor provides resources and advice tailored to students' specific needs. It includes articles, videos, and other tools to help students navigate the college application process.
Getting Started
Create an Account: Begin by visiting the Coalition for College website and creating an account. You'll need to provide basic information, such as your name, email address, and date of birth.
Add Colleges: Once your account is set up, you can start adding colleges and universities that accept the Coalition Application. Each college may have specific requirements and deadlines, so be sure to review them carefully.
Filling Out the Application
Profile Section: This section collects your personal information, including contact details, demographics, and family background. Make sure all information is accurate and up-to-date.
Academic History: You'll need to report all high school and college courses you've completed, including grades. Be prepared to enter information from your transcripts and ensure your academic record is accurately reflected.
Standardized Tests: If you choose to submit standardized test scores (such as SAT or ACT), report them in this section. Note that many colleges are test-optional, allowing you to decide whether to include your scores.
Extracurricular Activities: Highlight your involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, employment, and any honors or awards you've received. Compared to the Common App Activity List which allows up to 10 activities, the Coalition App allows up to 8, but with more space to write about each one. Here you will provide detailed descriptions that highlight your involvement and accomplishments.
Personal Essay: The Coalition Application includes a personal essay with a word limit of 650 words, similar to the Common App. You'll choose from several prompts and write a thoughtful, well-crafted response. Some colleges may also require additional writing supplements.
Submitting Your Application
Review and Submit: Before submitting your application, review each section carefully to ensure all information is accurate and complete. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors and make sure you've met all the requirements for each college.
Pay Application Fees: Each college charges an application fee, which varies in amount. The Coalition Application allows you to pay these fees online. If the fees present a financial burden, you may be eligible for a fee waiver.
Submit: Once you've reviewed your application and paid any necessary fees, you can submit your application to each college. After submission, you can track the status of your application through the Coalition Application dashboard.
Benefits of the Coalition Application
Accessibility: The Coalition Application is designed to make the college application process more accessible, especially for underrepresented students. Features like the Coalition Locker and Collaboration Space provide valuable support and resources.
Holistic Approach: Many Coalition schools emphasize a holistic review process, considering your personal experiences, achievements, and potential contributions to the campus community.
Supportive Tools: The MyCoalition Counselor and other resources help guide you through the application process, providing tailored advice and information.
Conclusion
The Coalition Application is a valuable alternative to the Common Application, offering unique features and a supportive approach designed to increase access to higher education. By understanding and effectively utilizing the Coalition Application, you can simplify your college application process and present a comprehensive, compelling case for your admission to participating colleges. Whatever application system you choose to use, start early, stay organized, and take advantage of the resources available to you. Good luck on your application journey!