Common App (commonapp.org) is a single application accepted by more than 1,000 colleges and universities, including many in Kansas and across the country.
Why use it. You enter your background, coursework, activities, and essay once. Each additional college you add is mostly just supplemental questions rather than a whole new application.
Fee waivers are built in. Under the Profile tab, in the Common App Fee Waiver section, select Yes to self-identify. During Kansas Apply Free Days you should still do this, since it is how Common App communicates the waiver to Kansas schools.
Not every school uses it. Many Kansas public institutions have their own applications, and community colleges generally do. Check each school’s admissions page before assuming Common App covers it.
One essay, many schools. The Common App personal essay is reusable across every member college.
If your high school uses Naviance, log in through your school’s portal. Many districts link Naviance to Common App so your counselor can send transcripts and recommendations directly.
Sources: Common App, commonapp.org; Kansas State University guidance on Common App fee waiver self-identification, k-state.edu.