Step-by-Step Guide- How to Effectively Add a Recommendation Letter to Your Common App Application

How to Add Recommendation Letter on Common App

Adding a recommendation letter to your Common App is a crucial step in presenting a comprehensive and compelling application to colleges. A well-written recommendation can significantly enhance your application by providing insight into your academic abilities, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities. In this article, we will guide you through the process of adding a recommendation letter to your Common App, ensuring that you maximize your chances of being accepted into your desired institutions.

Step 1: Choose the Right Recommender

The first step in adding a recommendation letter to your Common App is selecting the right recommender. Ideally, your recommender should be someone who knows you well and can speak to your strengths and achievements. This could be a teacher, counselor, coach, or employer. Make sure to choose someone who is willing to write a thoughtful and detailed letter.

Step 2: Request the Recommendation Letter

Once you have chosen your recommender, it’s time to request the recommendation letter. Provide your recommender with the following information:

– Your Common App username and password
– The deadline for submitting your application
– Instructions on how to access the recommendation section on the Common App
– Any specific questions or topics you would like your recommender to address in the letter

Step 3: Access the Recommendation Section on Common App

Log in to your Common App account and navigate to the “Recommendations” section. Here, you will find a list of recommenders you have added. Click on the “Add Recommendation” button next to the recommender you want to submit a letter for.

Step 4: Enter Recommender Information

In this step, you will need to enter your recommender’s contact information, including their name, title, and email address. Make sure to double-check the information for accuracy.

Step 5: Upload the Recommendation Letter

After entering your recommender’s information, you will be prompted to upload the recommendation letter. You can do this by either:

– Copying and pasting the letter into the text box provided
– Uploading a file from your computer

Ensure that the letter is saved in a PDF format for the best compatibility and quality.

Step 6: Submit the Recommendation

Once you have uploaded the recommendation letter, review the information to ensure it is correct. Then, click the “Submit” button to finalize the process. Your recommender will receive an email notification with instructions on how to complete the letter.

Step 7: Follow Up

After submitting the recommendation, it’s a good idea to follow up with your recommender to ensure they have received the email and have started the letter-writing process. This will help prevent any delays in the submission of your recommendation.

By following these steps, you can successfully add a recommendation letter to your Common App. Remember, a well-written recommendation can make a significant difference in your college application, so take the time to choose the right recommender and provide them with the necessary information to write a compelling letter. Good luck with your application!