Common Application Questions Tips
The Common Application sections listed below are required by all colleges/universities.
Testing Section
Chapman is test-optional. If you want to apply with your test scores, feel free to fill out the testing section of the Common Application.
- The testing section can be utilized for any exam scores you wish to self-report through the Common Application. This includes scores such as SAT, ACT, AP, IB, and SAT Subject Tests. You can list test scores received for exams that you have already taken and list future test dates you plan to take.
- After submitting your Common Application, your scores will not be visible on the PDF — that’s okay! If you applied with tests, the admission committee will still receive and review the scores you listed in the testing section.
- If you're applying as a test-optional applicant, your scores will remain hidden from our admission committee whether or not you filled out this section.
If you have questions, reach out to your counselor.
Activities Section
This section gives you the opportunity to show the admission committee how you are spending your time outside of the classroom. Our committee is interested in seeing the breadth of your involvements as well as the depth of those involvements. Consider these questions:
- What are you involved in?
- How long have you been involved in these areas?
- What level of impact do you have in each of those areas?
We understand that every applicant’s involvement may look different, and we pay close attention to context! For some general tips:
- Do not use acronyms if possible
- Highlight relevant leadership roles and responsibilities
- Avoid spelling and grammar mistakes
Personal Essay
The Personal Essay is only required for first-year applicants.
This is a space to share something central about yourself, whatever that may be!
Our committee is looking for students to share their passions, experiences, or stories with us. Make sure to be as honest and open as you can - the more your voice is added to your essay, the better our committee can get to know you. For some general tips:
- Don’t be school specific - this essay is shared with all schools you apply to through the Common Application, not just us!
- Be sure to have a couple trusted people take a look once you’ve finished writing it. Students can often miss small mistakes because they’ve been editing and rewriting themselves.
- Show, don’t tell - give us an inside look into your world.
Additional Information
Community Disruption
This is an optional space to share information about how your education or experiences may have been affected by COVID-19, a natural disaster or any other factor out of your control.
You can share details about your life, physical or mental health, safety, family situation, etc. It’s a free space to let our committee know about any circumstances you deem relevant.
We care about our students and want to better understand their situations and find the best ways to support them. For more guidance, we’d recommend reaching out to your school counselor.
Do you wish to provide details of circumstances or qualifications not reflected in the application?
Make sure not to overthink this part of the application! It is an optional piece, but this section can be a useful tool if you have additional information or relevant context that you want the admission committee to be aware of as we evaluate your file. For some general tips if you decide to utilize this section:
- Be concise and specific.
- Don’t repeat information already stated in other parts of your application.