5 Common App Mistakes Indian Students Make — And How to Avoid Them in 2025

Every year, we see brilliant Indian students lose out on top college offers — not because of marks, but because of Common App mistakes.

The Common Application is used by top colleges like Cornell, NYU, UCLA, Boston University, Duke, and more. But it’s not just a form — it’s a powerful storytelling tool.

If you're applying for Fall 2025 intake, make sure to avoid these top 5 errors — and read to the end for how we can help. Also one of the most important things needed is communication, weekly and even daily as needed to ensure every aspect of your profile is what is needed and showcased. It can make a difference between acceptance and rejection.

❌ Mistake #1: Treating the Essay Like a Formal School Essay

Many students write a “safe,” boring essay with formal tone and no story.

✅ Do this instead:

• Be personal, reflective, honest

• Use real stories — not achievements

• Show growth, resilience, or passion

💡 Example: One student wrote about her fear of public speaking at Model UN — and how she transformed. She got into UChicago.

👉 We offer essay brainstorming and editing with 1:1 coaching.

❌ Mistake #2: Not Explaining Activities Clearly

Students often write “Member – Debate Club” or “Volunteered for NGO.”

That tells admissions officers nothing.

✅ Do this instead:

• Be specific: “Led a 4-member team to interschool finals, winning 2nd prize”

• Use action verbs and quantify impact

👉 We help you rewrite activities to show leadership and initiative.

❌ Mistake #3: Weak or Late Letters of Recommendation

Teachers may delay or write vague LORs if they’re not given guidance or time.

✅ Do this:

• Choose teachers who know you well

• Give them points to mention

• Follow up politely

👉 We guide students on how to get strong LORs — even from strict or busy teachers.

❌ Mistake #4: Applying Without Strategy (No ED/EA Plan)

Randomly applying to 10–12 colleges won’t work — especially for top schools.

✅ What works:

• ED to a best-fit college (with realistic profile)

• EA to strategic options

• RD for backup + strong matches

👉 We offer ED/EA/RD strategy based on your goals and background.

❌ Mistake #5: Rushing the Application in October or November

Most mistakes happen in last-minute apps — spelling errors, missing essays, and poor formatting.

✅ Instead:

• Start now (July–August)

• Lock in college list and timelines

• Review all parts (essays, activities, LORs)

👉 We help you stay organized and application-ready by September.

🧠 Final Takeaway: The Common App is Not “Just a Form”

It’s a marketing tool for your child’s story. And in competitive schools, your essay and activity section matter more than your board marks.

So don’t do it alone — or leave it till October.

💬 Want a Free Application Review?

We’re currently offering free first reviews for high-achieving students applying to top US colleges.

🎯 Let’s help you avoid these mistakes and get your child into a college they truly deserve.

📲 message us on WhatsApp at 91 9999839370 or email at support@studyabroadpathway.com

🧠 Study Abroad Pathway Programs– Trusted by Indian families for Ivy League and top US college admissions.