Common App vs. Coalition App: Which One Should You Use for College Applications?

February 13, 2025 :: Admissionado

Introduction: The College Application Maze

You’ve picked your colleges, narrowed down your list, and now comes another decision: How do you actually apply?

Most students automatically go with the Common Application, but there’s also the Coalition Application—and some schools even have their own direct applications.

So, which one is best for you? Is the Common App always the right choice, or does the Coalition App offer unique advantages?

This guide breaks down the key differences, advantages, and drawbacks of both platforms—so you can make the smartest choice for your college application strategy.

What is the Common App?

The Common Application (Common App) is the most widely used college application platform, accepted by 1,000+ colleges and universities across the U.S. and beyond. It allows students to apply to multiple schools with one application, streamlining the process.

What’s Included in the Common App?

• Personal information & high school details – Basic data about you, your coursework, and activities.
• Common App essay – A personal statement required by many schools.
• Supplemental essays – Additional school-specific essays for colleges that require them.
• Letters of recommendation & transcripts – Sent directly through the platform by teachers and counselors.

Cost & Fee Waivers

• Application fees vary by school, typically ranging from $50 to $90 per college.
• Fee waivers are available for students who qualify based on financial need.

Since most colleges accept the Common App, it’s the go-to platform for the majority of applicants—but it’s not the only option.

What is the Coalition App?

The Coalition Application is a newer college application platform, used by 150+ colleges, primarily top-tier universities that emphasize affordability and access for underrepresented students.

What Makes the Coalition App Different?

• “Coalition Locker” – A digital portfolio where students can store grades, essays, projects, and letters of recommendation throughout high school. This helps students organize materials before applying.
• Stronger focus on accessibility – Many Coalition schools offer free applications for low-income students, making it a budget-friendly option.
• More limited school list – Unlike the Common App’s 1,000+ schools, the Coalition App has fewer participating colleges, though many are highly selective institutions.

The Coalition App is best suited for students applying to top schools that prioritize access and affordability, but its smaller list of schools may not work for everyone.

Common App vs. Coalition App: Key Differences

While both platforms help students apply to multiple colleges, there are some major differences:

• Number of Schools
  • Common App: 1,000+ participating colleges, including most major universities.
  • Coalition App: ~150 schools, primarily top-tier institutions focused on affordability.
• Essay Requirements
  • Common App: One Common App essay (used by many schools) plus supplemental essays for individual colleges.
  • Coalition App: One Coalition essay, plus school-specific supplements where required.
• Application Fee
  • Common App: $50-$90 per school (fee waivers available).
  • Coalition App: Many Coalition schools offer free applications for low-income students.
• Best For
  • Common App: The best choice for most students, especially those applying to a mix of schools.
  • Coalition App: Best for students who need financial aid and are applying to selective schools with a focus on access and affordability.
• Unique Feature
  • Common App: The most widely accepted application platform, making it convenient for students applying broadly.
  • Coalition App: Offers a digital “Locker”, allowing students to store grades, essays, and projects over time to build their applications more gradually.

Ultimately, most students will use the Common App, but for those applying to Coalition-exclusive schools or seeking free applications, the Coalition App can be a smart alternative.

Should You Use Common App, Coalition App, or Apply Directly?

Your application strategy depends on where you’re applying and what works best for you. Here’s a breakdown of when to use each option:

Use the Common App if:

• You’re applying to multiple schools that accept it.
• You want a single application that works for most colleges.
• You prefer a widely used, well-supported platform with extensive resources.

Use the Coalition App if:

• You qualify for financial aid and want access to free applications at select schools.
• You’re targeting highly selective colleges that accept it.
• You like the idea of a portfolio-based system where you can store materials over time.

Apply Directly to Schools if:

• The school doesn’t accept the Common App or Coalition App.
• You want more control over your application, such as tailored materials for a specific college.
• You’re applying to a state school system that uses its own application (e.g., UC Application, ApplyTexas, CUNY Application).

For most students, the Common App is the best choice since it’s accepted by the largest number of schools. However, if Coalition schools fit your list or you need fee-free applications, it’s worth considering. Always check which platforms your target colleges accept before making a decision.

Common Questions About the Common App & Coalition App

1. How Many Colleges Can You Apply to on the Common App?

• The Common App allows you to apply to up to 20 schools within the platform.
• If you want to apply to more, you may need to use school-specific applications for additional colleges.

2. Does It Cost Money to Apply Through the Common App?

• Yes, application fees typically range from $50-$90 per school.
• Fee waivers are available for eligible students based on financial need.

3. What Schools Don’t Use the Common App?

• University of California (UC system) – Uses the UC Application.
• MIT – Requires its own application.
• Georgetown – Requires a direct application separate from Common App.
• Many state schools – Systems like ApplyTexas, SUNY, and CUNY use their own platforms.

Final Takeaways: Which Application Should You Use?

• Most students should use the Common App—it’s accepted by over 1,000 colleges and makes applying to multiple schools easier.
• The Coalition App is best for students seeking fee waivers or targeting top-tier schools that prioritize affordability and access.
• Applying directly makes sense for schools that don’t use either platform, like MIT, Georgetown, and the University of California system.
• Strategy matters: Choose the application system that maximizes your chances, keeps costs manageable, and simplifies your process.

For most applicants, the Common App is the best choice, but if your school list includes Coalition-exclusive or direct-application schools, plan accordingly.