Choosing the Right Application

The Common App officially opened on August 1. And if you’re a high school senior, you’re probably hearing a lot about deadlines, essays, and college applications. But did you know you have options when applying to Florida Southern College?

At FSC, we accept both the Common App and our own FSC Preferred Application. So, which one should you choose?

Let’s break it down.

The Common App: One Application, Many Colleges

More than 1,000 colleges and universities use the Common Application. It’s a great option if you plan to apply to multiple schools because you can:

• Apply to several colleges using one central application
• Reuse your main personal essay across applications
• Easily track deadlines and requirements in one place

Why choose the Common App? If you’re applying to FSC and other schools that use the Common App, it can save time and keep everything organized. You can even invite recommenders and submit test scores right from your dashboard.

The FSC Application: Simple, Personal, and Free

If you’re only applying to a few schools, or just FSC, our Preferred app might be the perfect fit. It’s :

• Quick and easy to complete
• Designed with shorter, more personal essay prompts tailored to your story
• Just as valid and equally reviewed for admission and scholarship consideration

Why choose the FSC application? If you're feeling overwhelmed by the Common App essay, our prompts are shorter and more focused, making it easier to share what makes you stand out.

So…Which Should You Choose?

The good news? There’s no wrong answer.

• ✅ If you’re applying to multiple schools through Common App → go that route.
• ✅ If you want a quicker, FSC-focused experience → our free app is a great option.

Either way, you'll receive the same consideration for admission, scholarships, and special visit opportunities.

Pro Tip

Already started your Common App essay but unsure if it’s ready? No problem. If you decide to use the FSC application, you can use your Common App essay or choose one of our three shorter prompts.