How to Use the Common App Additional Information Section

When applying to universities in the US, every section of the Common App plays a role. While most students focus on their personal essay, activity list and letters of recommendation, there is one small section that can quietly strengthen your application: the Additional Information section.

This optional box, located at the end of the Common App’s writing section, is easy to overlook. But when used strategically, it can help clarify key details, highlight important accomplishments and present supporting evidence that does not fit elsewhere. This blog explains what the Additional Information section is, how it has changed in recent years, and how to use it effectively.

What is the Additional Information Section?

The Additional Information section allows you to share anything important that is not already covered in your application. You are given a 300-word space to do so.

In the past, this section allowed 650 words, but recent changes reduced the limit to 300. At the same time, the Common App introduced a new “Challenges and Circumstances” section, with a 250-word limit, specifically for explaining hardships such as illness, family responsibilities or disruptions to education.

This shift means the Additional Information section is no longer the place for personal difficulties. It is now a space for useful context and additional detail that adds value to your application. You do not have to fill it out, but if used well, it can give you a competitive edge.

Why Should You Use It?

Plenty of applicants leave the Additional Information box blank. That is perfectly acceptable. But if you have something meaningful to share, here is how this section can help:

Add Depth to Key Activities

The Common App gives you only 150 characters to describe each extracurricular activity. That is barely enough to outline your role, let alone the impact you had.

If one of your activities was a major part of your high school experience, the Additional Information section allows you to expand on it. You might explain the goals of a project you led, outline results you achieved, or describe the scale of your involvement.

Example: Instead of just writing “Organised school fundraiser” in the activities list, you could use the Additional Information section to explain that you led a team of 12 students, raised $8,000 for a local charity, and coordinated partnerships with four businesses.

Include Tangible Evidence

If you have proof of your achievements, this is the best place to include it. You can reference:

• Certificates or awards not listed elsewhere
• Videos or performances
• Articles or research you published
• Portfolios or websites
• Media coverage of your work

Add Helpful Context

You might also want to use this section to explain aspects of your academic background or educational experience. This could include:

• A grading system that differs from most schools
• A school transfer that led to changes in coursework
• Independent study or online courses not shown on your transcript
• Early graduation or extended gaps in study for academic reasons

Keep it short and factual. Do not use this section to make excuses or to complain. The goal is simply to help the admissions team understand your situation clearly.

What to Avoid

This section is flexible, but there are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

Do Not Repeat Your Essay

This is not a second personal statement. Do not copy in another story or expand on the same themes from your main essay. The admissions officer has already read that.

Do Not Fill Space for the Sake of It

If you do not have anything meaningful to add, leave this section blank. Admissions officers prefer a clean application to one filled with repetition or fluff.

Do Not Paste Your Resume

Avoid listing extra awards, clubs or accomplishments that belong in the Activities or Honors sections. This section should not become a second resume.

Do Not Explain Personal Hardships

There is now a separate space for discussing serious challenges: the Challenges and Circumstances section. Keep this box focused on context and achievements, not adversity.

Tips for a Strong Entry

• Use a clear structure: short paragraphs or bullet points are fine
• Be concise and specific
• Clearly label any links and explain what they are
• Prioritise the most relevant information

Think of this section as a supporting tool. It should complement your application, not compete with it.

Conclusion: A Small Box with Big Potential

The Additional Information section is optional, but powerful. When used thoughtfully, it can offer new insights into your character, clarify confusing elements, and showcase the full impact of your work.

Remember, you are not required to write anything here. But if you have something important to add, whether it is evidence, explanation or expansion, this 300-word space can help elevate your entire application.

If you are unsure whether to use this section or what to include, you are not alone. Many students need help deciding how to present themselves authentically while staying within the Common App’s limits. Our expert support at Ed Carpet can help you find the right balance and make every section count.