College application reference
What Happens After Submitting the Common App
After submitting, confirm that the college received the application and check whether any college-specific materials remain. Requirements can include recommendations, transcripts, scores, fees, financial-aid forms, or a status-portal task.
Review each college's checklist
Common App's guides describe college-specific requirements and materials submitted by supporters. Once an application is sent, review the college's instructions and any application-status communication it provides.
Track outside materials
A college may need a counselor form, teacher recommendation, transcript, test score, or financial-aid document after the student submits their own application. Check which materials are required and how the college wants them sent.
Keep records and meet later deadlines
Save submission confirmations and review any requests from the college. Financial aid, scholarship, housing, and enrollment deadlines can be separate from the application deadline.
Common questions
Can I change an application after submitting it?+
The answer depends on the college and the item that needs changing. Use the college's current instructions or contact its admissions office.
Should I wait for recommendation letters before submitting?+
Follow each college's process. A college may let students submit their own portion while recommenders submit separately, but the final file still needs all required materials.
Official sources
Policies and requirements can change. Check these sources before acting on a deadline or requirement.
- Application guide for first-year students (Common App, reviewed 2026-08-11)
- Application guide for transfer students (Common App, reviewed 2026-08-11)