Each year, seniors across the nation upload their résumés and essays to the Common Application. The Common App is used to apply to over 600 colleges and is typically released in August for incoming seniors to begin filling in the multiple sections: personal profile, academic record, standardized test scores, activities and a personal essay.

Now, students can get started on those applications earlier using the Coalition Application.

The Coalition Application, currently accepted by 80 competitive colleges and universities, is available to students beginning in ninth grade and features a “locker” where students can keep a portfolio of their work. Students can update their résumés in real time throughout high school, and can invite mentors, including college guidance officers, to review their “locker” for advice and support.

Freshman Morgan Kelley said, “The Coalition Application will definitely help with organization and preparation for junior year when the whole college search begins. I think that it’s a great opportunity for younger students to get a head start on this very stressful process.”

Many public universities have begun to add Coalition as an alternative option for students. Private universities can join only if they guarantee in-state students    affordable   tuition and financial aid.  Colleges must also show that at least 70% of students graduate within six years.   

Head of the guidance department Jennifer Dolan said, “Coalition is specifically directed toward students who typically do not have all the resources or accessibility when applying to college; however, it will definitely not replace the traditional Common Application. Coalition can just add another layer of stress earlier on in high school, so I advise that students just stick to the Common App for the time being.”

The Coalition Application will be released in summer 2016.