Maximum Number of Honors to List on the Common Application
The Common Application is a widely used form to apply to colleges and universities in the United States. As of the latest update, each application allows students to list up to 10 achievements in the honors section. However, this number is reduced in practice due to the limited space provided, leading most students to list only five honors.
Understanding the Honors Section
The honors section in the Common Application is a critical component for students to showcase their accomplishments. This section offers five slots, each with a 100-character limit, making it crucial to choose the most impressive and unique achievements to highlight.
Important Tips for the Honors Section
1. Selecting the Right Honors
It's essential to consider the uniqueness of each honor you list. If you have multiple honors to choose from, prioritize those that stand out from the crowd. Common achievements might not have the same impact as those that are less typical, making them less advantageous to include. For instance, if you have multiple academic awards, it might be better to select one that represents a significant achievement rather than listing them all.
2. Order of Impressiveness
Arrange your honors in order of impressiveness. Consider not only the impact your honor had but also the competitiveness of the achievement. For example, being part of a state-level science fair would be more impressive than a local event. Ensure that your list showcases your greatest achievements first before moving to less significant ones.
3. Efficient Use of Space
Given the limited space, every character counts. Combine awards from multiple years into one slot to save space. Instead of writing out full sentences, use short, impactful phrases. For instance, instead of 'Recipient of the National Science Award for Environmental Science,' you could write 'NSA in Enviro Sci.' Also, consider using numbers where appropriate to save space, such as 'Top 10% in Math' instead of 'Top 10% in Advanced Math Class.'
4. Filling All Slots
If you have fewer than five honors to fill all the slots, don't stress over it. Use the available slots to highlight your best achievements. Even if you can only list three or four, focus on quality over quantity. The key is to present your achievements in the most impactful and memorable way possible. Despite the limitation, you can still make a strong impression by making the most of the space you have.
Closing Thoughts
The Common Application provides students with a platform to showcase their achievements and personal strengths. While the limitation to five honors might seem restrictive, it encourages applicants to carefully select and present their most impressive achievements. By following these tips, you can make the best of the honors section and increase your chances of standing out to admissions committees.
Keywords: Common Application, honors section, college applications, admissions, university applications