college applications – Elite4usa.com

The Common App has Additional Information (300 words) and Challenges and Circumstances (250 words). The UC application has two Additional Comments boxes (550 characters and 550 words). Four boxes, four different purposes and limits. Here is what belongs in each, and why leaving them blank is often the right call.

Applications | College Admissions

The ‘Additional Information’ Boxes on the Common App and the UC Application — What to Write, and When to Leave Them Blank

ByAndy Lee | Elite Prep Suwanee October 1, 2026

A final pre-submission checklist for the Common App. Once submitted, a student cannot edit it. Activities character limits, the Honors trap, FERPA and recommender assignment, how deadlines are timed — a practical guide for families ahead of the November 1 early deadlines.

Application Materials | College Admissions

Before You Hit Submit — A 10-Point Final Check for the Common App

ByAndy Lee | Elite Prep Suwanee September 6, 2026September 6, 2026

A complete guide to teacher recommendation letters for U.S. college applications. How many you need, whom to ask, when and how to ask, what goes in a brag sheet, and why you should waive your FERPA rights — before the November 1 early deadlines.

Application Materials | College Admissions

Teacher Recommendation Letters: September Is Your Last Real Window — Whom to Ask and How

ByAndy Lee | Elite Prep Suwanee September 2, 2026September 6, 2026

"Let the colleges get to know you" is the most common essay advice — and the least useful. Here are the 5 questions that actually surface a topic, why impressive isn't the goal, the rule against proving what your application already proves, and how to show instead of declare.

Application Essays | College Admissions

What Should You Write Your College Essay About? It Doesn’t Have to Be Impressive

ByAndy Lee | Elite Prep Suwanee August 26, 2026August 26, 2026