Common App vs Coalition App: Key Differences

Number of Schools

This application is accepted by over 900 schools in the US. See this post here for the full list of schools, broken down by US state. Students can apply to a maximum of 20 schools using the Common App.

This application is accepted by around 150 schools in the US. There is no maximum of schools that students can apply to using the Coalition App.

Type of Schools

Students can apply to a wide range of schools, including both public and private schools. Some international schools outside the US can also be applied to using the Common App.

Partner schools typically include those that have the appropriate resources to support students from historically underrepresented communities. Schools on this application may have a large financial aid budget or low tuition fees.

Application Fee

There is no application fee to use the Common App platform. However, individual schools may charge processing fees, with fee waivers being offered to eligible students.  

There is no application fee to use the Coalition App platform. However, individual schools may charge processing fees, with fee waivers being offered to eligible students.  

Required Essay

Students are required to write an essay of 250-650 words. There is a wider variety of prompts than the Coalition App.

Students are required to write an essay of 500-650 words. There are fewer prompts to choose between than the Common App. 

Document Storage

Students cannot store documents on this platform.

There is a system called the "Locker" where students may upload any materials that they think will help them complete their applications. Documents can be uploaded anytime throughout a student's high school journey and may be deleted anytime before submitting the final applucation.

Recommendation Letters

Students are typically required to submit recommendation letters from teachers or guidance counsellors before submitting an application through Common App.

Most schools require recommendation letters, but some schools may not require them. Students are advised to check each school's requirements before submitting an application.

Mobile App

Students can download a mobile version of the Common App so they can work on their college applications even when they don't have access to a laptop or computer.

No mobile app is available for the Coalition app so students will need to complete and submit their application using a laptop or computer.

Types of Files 

Simpler file formats such as PDFs and Word Documents are allowed. Students may also directly type their essay into the provided box in the essay section of the portal.

Allows students to upload a wider range of files such as PDFs, images, videos, presentations (eg. Google slides, Microsoft Powerpoint)

Technical Support

Students are well-supported with a wide range of options to contact the Common pp such as by phone, web chat or email.

Only email support is provided to students which might make it more time consuming to get in touch with a staff member for technical support.

Reminders

Frequent reminders are sent to stduents regarding application dates. This makes it easier to be mindful of deadlines and ensures students don't forget about upcoming submission dates.

No reminders are sent to students. Applicants are responsible for planning their own schedule to ensure all materials are submitted by the relevant deadlines.

Activities List

Up to 10 activities can be listed, however each one can only be described very briefly. For tips on how to write the Common App activities list, see this post here.

Up to 8 activities can be listed but each activity can be described in more depth.