Common BLACK COLLEGE Application
The Common Black College Application is an affordable college application that can be used to apply to multiple Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU) across the country - all at once. Using this application is a great option for students who want to apply to HBCUs while cutting down on traditionally high college application costs.
Application opens: Fall of each year
Applications due: The application deadline depends on each college. Many who are applying early decision (typically November 1) or regular decision (typically January 1). Make sure to check with each college to know the deadline.
Use the College Map Mentor's Academic Organizer to keep track of your classes, grades, awards, certifications, accolades, community service, clubs, sports, work, etc. Collect all of the information you need to complete your applications in one place.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The CBCA partners with 67 HBCUs in the U.S. to allow students to apply to them at an affordable cost. When completing your CBCA, you will be prompted to select the top 4 schools you’d most like to attend. Even if you don’t include a school in your top 4, your application will still be made available to most of them. There are some schools that will not process your application if you do not select them as one of your top 4 choices. If you didn’t select a school in your top 4 and want your application to be processed by them, be sure to contact them by phone or email to let them know you’re interested in attending.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The application cost is a one-time fee of $20.
If you are asked by a member school to complete another application or pay another application fee, be sure to contact them and let them know you applied using the CBCA.
There are no fee waivers for the cost of the application and there are no refunds.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO USE THIS APPLICATION?
ANYONE who is interested in applying to an HBCU may use this application.
There is no racial or economic requirement to apply.
Tip #1:
DO NOT send a Common Black College App and Common App or Direct University application or you may delay your application process.
What do I need to apply?
Personal information (name, address, social security number etc.)
Official Transcripts
Your official transcripts are needed to submit your application. When you apply, enter your counselor’s name and email address. They’ll receive an email to create an account, enter your application dashboard, and upload your transcripts. Scores on tests such as the SAT and ACT, while not required on the application, may also be submitted by your counselor or by completing a Score Send on College Board. When you apply, you will also need to enter your school’s CEEB code. Your counselor cannot upload your transcripts without it. Not sure what your school’s CEEB code is? Find it here.
Approximate cumulative high school GPA
Extracurricular activities you’ve participated in (sports, clubs, etc.)
Your intended major
Your list of top 4 HBCUs
Most member schools do not require letters of recommendation and essays. If you still want to send specific schools either of these materials, reach out to them directly to learn where and how to submit them.
HOW TO APPLY TO COLLEGES USING THE COMMON BLACK COLLEGE APP
Gather the information you KNOW you will need
- If you have you been using the College Map Mentor's Academic Organizer to keep track of your classes, grades, awards, certifications, accolades, community service, clubs, sports, work, etc, you can pull it up and have all of your information
- Copy of your high school transcript
- List of your activities, work & family responsibilities
- Test scores and dates from your college entrance exams (SATs, ACTs, etc)
- Parent/Legal guardian information
- Academic honors & achievements
Create a Common Black College App account
Go to the website, click "Apply Now" at the top of the page, create your account and complete the application. Don't forget to provide an email address for your School Counselor (will be used to notify them to create an account so your Official Transcript & test scores may be uploaded).DO NOT SUBMIT APPLICATION UNLESS ALL INFORMATION HAS BEEN REVIEWED BY A PARENT, COUNSELOR, OR TRUSTED INDIVIDUAL AND THE APPLICATION IS COMPLETELY READY. YOU NEED TO CHECK FOR MISTAKES. ONCE AN APPLICATION IS SUBMITTED, YOU CANNOT MAKE ANY CHANGES - EVEN IF THERE IS A TYPO.
Confirm which of the schools on your list accept the Common Application
Select your top 4 colleges. Although you are asked to select your top four colleges, your application is made available to all of the Member Institutions.Pay your $20
Yes, it is only $20!Submit!
Submit all your application materials by 11:59 pm (in your local time zone) on the deadline date posted in your Common App Dashboard.Reach out
Although you do not have to complete another application or pay another application fee, some of the Member Institutions will only process your application if you select them as one of your top four choices. If you did not select one of the Member Institutions as one of your top four choices, we encourage you to contact them by phone, email or letter to let them know you are interested in attending their college. Please ask for the person who works with the Common Black College Applications.Track
You may track the progress of your application, communicate with our Member Institutions and upload Unofficial Transcripts and your test scores (SAT or ACT) by logging into your application with your email address and password and clicking on Application Details.
View the Common Black College App guide here.
WHAT colleges use the common black college app?
Colleges in red/italic may also be found on the Common App.