Common Application

How to Write a Compelling College Match Essay

Read our tips for writing an effective college match essay for your college applications. The ideal match essay will paint a picture of a two-way street in which the college is a great fit for you, and you are a great fit for it. In order to do this successfully, you’ll need to thoroughly research each college you’re applying to, then compose a compelling piece of writing articulating the specific “match” areas you’ve identified.

When Will You Hear Back From Colleges?

Congratulations on submitting your college applications! Now, when will you learn your admissions results? See our list of regular decision notification dates for many selective schools for the Class of 2027 application cycle.

How to Write the College Personal Essay

Are you feeling overwhelmed at the thought of writing your personal essay for the Common Application? We walk you through some tried-and-true tips for crafting a tight, captivating personal essay that will wow admissions officers. Read our list of dos and don'ts and recommendations for organizing frameworks.

Early College Admissions Notification Dates 2022-23

Congratulations on submitting your early college applications! Now when will you find out your college admissions results? See our list of early admissions notification dates for many selective schools for the 2022-23 application cycle.

Tips for Creating a College Application Video Submission

Several highly selective colleges now offer the opportunity to submit a short video with your college application. Check out our advice for giving your top schools a glimpse of your unique character.

Tips and Tricks for Tackling the Common App

Read our tips and tricks to complete the Common Application efficiently and with less stress! Our recommendations include timing, essay writing, editing, and gathering important information in advance.

2022-23 Common Application Updates

The Common App went live on August 1, 2022, and several new schools have joined the Common App platform! Read on to find out about this year's Common App changes and updates.

Regular Admissions Trends for the Class of 2026

Test optional admissions policies, surging applications, over-enrollment, and increasing selectivity have culminated in a wild admissions cycle for the Class of 2026. Read more to find out how future applicants should craft a college list and maximize admissions chances.

Collegiate Gateway’s Guide to Early Admissions Policies

If you are confused about restrictive and non-restrictive early admissions policies for college applications, you are not alone! We can answer many of your questions about the differences in ED (early decision), REA (restrictive early action), SCEA (single-choice early action), and EA (early action) policies among a selection of top colleges.

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