How to Use the Common App Additional Information Section With Examples
So you’ve poured your heart into your essays, meticulously crafted your activity list, and agonized over the perfect school list. You’re almost there—your college application is nearly complete! But wait, there’s one more section that could be remaining: the Additional Information section of the Common App.
Often overlooked, this section offers a second chance to show your unique qualities and provide crucial context for your application. But what exactly should you write in this space? This blog is your guide to using the Additional Information section, complete with insightful tips and real-life examples to help you write a compelling narrative that sets you apart.
What is the Additional Information Section on the Common App?
The Common App offers an “Additional Information” section, a freeform text box where you can share details you believe are important for the admissions committee to consider. This section acts as a bridge between the structured parts of your application and a more holistic understanding of you as a person.
Think of it as an opportunity to provide context or clarification. Did you experience extenuating circumstances that impacted your grades for a specific period? Perhaps you have dedicated significant time outside of school to a personal project or family responsibilities. The Additional Information section is the perfect place to elaborate on these situations.
This section can also show achievements that didn’t fit neatly elsewhere in the application. Did you win a local art competition or volunteer extensively in your community? Share those accomplishments here! The goal is to paint a more complete picture of your background, experiences, and the factors that shaped who you are today.
Deciding whether to use the “Additional Information” section on your college application can be tricky. Consider these questions to help you decide what belongs there:
- Extenuating circumstances: Did you face challenges impacting grades or activities (e.g., school transfers limiting club options)? Explain here.
- Context for dips: Do you need to explain a drop in grades or extracurricular involvement? Provide the necessary context.
- Addressing negatives: Do you have a disciplinary action or other issue you want to address? Use this space to explain and discuss.
- Highly unusual achievements: Have a unique accomplishment that requires a detailed explanation? Include it here, but remember: admissions officers are familiar with typical high school activities. Only highly specific or unusual achievements belong here.
Read also: Common App Colleges
Is “Additional Information” really optional on the Common App?
The “Additional Information” section is truly optional. It’s not meant for generic interest essays or highlighting personal qualities. Reserve it for explaining extenuating circumstances, negative aspects of your application, or anything needing clarification. If none apply, leave it blank—a strong application doesn’t require this section.
Examples of Writing “Additional Information” on the Common App
Example 1: Context for dips: Do you need to explain a drop in grades or extracurricular involvement? Provide the necessary context.
| During my junior year, there was a noticeable decline in my involvement in the school drama club. While I’d previously held a leadership role and participated in most productions, my participation became more limited. I understand that colleges value a well-rounded applicant, so I want to address this shift in my extracurricular activities. The truth is that junior year presented unexpected academic challenges. I enrolled in several Advanced Placement courses, and the workload proved more demanding than anticipated. Balancing these rigorous classes with the time commitment required for the drama club became increasingly difficult. As someone who strives for excellence in all I do, I made the tough decision to temporarily scale back my extracurricular involvement to prioritize my academics. This decision wasn’t easy. Theater has always been a passion, but neglecting my studies wasn’t an option. This temporary shift allowed me to focus on mastering new concepts and developing strong study habits. Thankfully, the hard work paid off. I maintained a high GPA throughout the year, showing my ability to handle a demanding course load. While my involvement in the drama club lessened, my passion for theater never wavered. I used the extra time to hone my acting skills by taking an online acting workshop. This experience allowed me to explore a different aspect of theater and deepen my understanding of the craft. Looking back, this temporary shift proved valuable. I learned the importance of prioritizing and managing my time effectively. I also discovered new ways to nurture my passion for theater outside of the club setting. Now, as a senior, I’m back in the drama club, this time with a renewed sense of focus and a newfound skillset learned through the online workshop. |
Example 2: Extenuating circumstances: Did you face challenges impacting grades or activities (e.g., school transfers limiting club options)? Explain here.
| In the middle of my junior year, my family relocated across the country, necessitating a mid-year transfer to a new high school. While I was excited about the fresh start, this transition impacted both my academic performance and extracurricular involvement in unforeseen ways. Adjusting to a new curriculum and teaching style proved initially challenging. My grades in math and science, subjects in which I typically excel, dipped slightly during the first semester. The new school offered a different sequence of courses, requiring me to adapt to a slightly accelerated pace. However, I sought extra help from teachers and peers, and by the second semester, I had regained my academic footing. This experience highlighted the importance of proactive communication and self-advocacy, skills that will translate well to the college environment. Extracurricular activities were another area affected by the transfer. While my previous school boasted a vibrant robotics club, my new school lacked one entirely. Undeterred, I joined the environmental club, where I discovered a passion for sustainability initiatives. Although different from robotics, this new activity allowed me to explore my interest in environmental science and connect with like-minded students. The mid-year transfer presented unforeseen challenges, but it also fostered resilience and adaptability. I learned to adapt to new academic environments and discovered new interests outside my comfort zone. These experiences have strengthened my work ethic, communication skills, and ability to thrive in unfamiliar situations—qualities I believe will serve me well in a diverse college setting. |
Suggested: 7 Common App Essay Prompts for 2023-2024 Application Cycle
Why Should You Provide “Additional Information”?
The additional information section of your college application process is your chance to present a holistic picture of yourself. Admissions committees understand that life has its ups and downs, and they value honesty and context. So, if you answered yes to any of the questions above or have a similar experience that significantly impacts your application, this is your space to shine.
- Disciplinary or legal issues: A disciplinary or legal action on your record might raise questions. Here, you have the power to explain what happened, show personal growth, and frame the narrative. Leaving it out won’t erase the issue; instead, it removes your chance to control the story. Perhaps you overcame a challenging situation or learned a valuable lesson. Sharing these details can show your maturity and resilience.
- Grade fluctuations: Don’t fabricate reasons for a dip in grades. However, if you have faced genuine challenges like a severe illness or a family crisis, explaining them allows colleges to consider these circumstances during their review. This transparency can help them understand your academic performance more accurately.
- Unique experiences: The activities section highlights your extracurricular involvement. However, if something significant doesn’t fit neatly under that category, consider including it here. Maybe you spent a summer mastering a standing backflip. While it wouldn’t warrant a personal statement, a brief mention can show your dedication and personality.
Note: The activities section remains the primary spot for extracurriculars. But this additional information section allows you to add depth and context to your application, creating a well-rounded picture of who you are as a student and a person.
Read also: How to Arrange Your Activity List on the Common App
Navigate to the Additional Information Section on the Common App
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find and utilize the Additional Information section within the Common App:
- Login and navigate: Begin by logging in to the Common App website. Once logged in, locate the “Common App” tab and click on it.
- Writing section: On the sidebar menu, find the “Writing” section and select it.
- Locate additional information: Scroll down within the “Writing” section. You’ll see the “Personal Essay” section. Continue scrolling past this section until you find “Additional Information.” Click on “Additional Information” to proceed.
- Entering additional details: You should now see a question displayed: “Do you wish to provide details of circumstances or qualifications not reflected in the application?” If you have information you’d like to share that isn’t captured elsewhere in your application, select “Yes.”
- Text box appears: Choosing “Yes” will prompt a text box to appear. This is where you can provide additional information.
| COVID-19 Impact Update (as of 2023) It’s important to note that the Common App offers an additional option for applicants impacted by COVID-19 (as of 2023). If you’d like to share how COVID-19 has affected your academic journey or extracurricular activities, you can select “Yes” in response to the initial question: “Do you wish to provide details of circumstances or qualifications not reflected in the application?” Selecting “Yes” for this specific prompt will trigger an additional text box dedicated to elaborating on the impact of COVID-19. |
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How to Write Effectively Additional Information Section on the Common App
The “Additional Information” section is your chance to provide clear and concise details that enhance your application without flowery language or unnecessary embellishment. Unlike the Common App essay, this section is all about getting straight to the point. The strongest “Additional Information” sections are brief, factual, and focused on self-reflection. Use specific examples when necessary, but avoid unnecessary details. Remember that this is additional information, not a place to rewrite your entire application.
Think of it this way: Admissions officers are busy people. They don’t need metaphors or a show of your writing style. They simply want the key information that completes the picture of who you are as a student.
The length can vary depending on what you’re explaining. It could be a quick 50-word explanation or a more detailed 600-word breakdown, but avoid rambling or including irrelevant details.
Here’s the key: Be factual and specific. If you’re addressing a weakness in your application, take responsibility and explain any mitigating factors that contributed to it. Don’t make excuses, but do show how you’ve learned and grown from the experience.
Read also: When Do College Applications Open in 2024?
Don’ts in the “Additional Information” Section
Accomplishment overload
If you’ve earned impressive awards, published works, or completed significant projects outside of school, they most likely belong in the Activities or Honors sections. Before adding them to “Additional Information,” consider why they weren’t included elsewhere. Remember that this section is for context, not entirely new information.
Deja vu details
One common pitfall is repeating information already presented. Your transcript, activities list, and awards section have already painted a picture of your academic and extracurricular achievements. Restating these details in “Additional Information” is a waste of valuable space. Use this opportunity to offer insights or address specific situations.
Dwelling on the downside
It’s okay to explain academic or extracurricular challenges factually. However, avoid dwelling on negativity without highlighting how you grew, persevered, or learned from those experiences. Admissions officers are more interested in your ability to overcome obstacles than the obstacles themselves.
Be mindful of the length
Don’t let “Additional Information” morph into a full-blown essay or an extension of your personal statement. Admissions officers value concise, informative content. Avoid excessive details, and keep your explanations clear and to the point.
Read also: How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest in 2024?
From the Desk of Yocket
The Additional Information Section is most effective when used thoughtfully and strategically. On the one hand, it offers a much-needed space to provide context and shed light on areas of your application that might otherwise be unclear. This can be especially helpful for explaining extenuating circumstances or elaborating on achievements that couldn’t be fully described elsewhere. It allows you to present a more well-rounded picture of yourself to the admissions committee.
However, the Additional Information Section’s very nature, being optional, can tempt some applicants to overstuff it with unnecessary details. Remember that admissions officers are swamped with applications, so clarity and conciseness are crucial. This section should be used to highlight specific points, not to rewrite your entire application narrative. Also, Yocket can provide guidance on how to effectively use this section to strengthen your application without overwhelming the reader.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Additional Information Section on the Common App?
The Additional Information section is an optional space on the Common App for you to provide context or details that aren’t covered elsewhere in your application. It’s your chance to give the admissions committee a more complete picture of who you are.
How long should the Additional Information Section be on the Common App?
The Common App restricts it to 650 words. Be concise, and focus on the most important details.
Should I use the Additional Information Section on the Common App?
Only include information that adds value to your application. If you’re unsure, consider if it clarifies something important or reveals a unique aspect of yourself.