Georgetown is joining Common App in 2026: What it means for applicants
In a historic shift, Georgetown University will join the Common Application for the 2026 admissions cycle, according to a university announcement reported by The Hoya. This marks a significant departure from the institution’s long-held commitment to its own application system — a stance that had set it apart from many of its peer institutions, leaving MIT and the University of California system the only highly selective Tier 1 schools left that resist joining the Common App.
Why this matters
For decades, Georgetown’s refusal to adopt the Common App was almost as famous as its Jesuit values and competitive admissions process. The university’s unique application included additional short answer questions and required students to start the process on its own bespoke platform. For students, this meant duplicating effort — and in some cases, skipping an application altogether in favour of more streamlined options.
Now, as Georgetown integrates into the Common App system, it becomes more accessible to a wider pool of applicants, especially those applying to several selective universities. According to a report, more than 1,000 colleges and universities currently use the Common App, and the platform received over 1.3 million unique applicants during the 2023–24 cycle.
A more accessible Georgetown?
The move could broaden Georgetown’s reach and reduce barriers for underrepresented students and international applicants — a major theme in US higher education admissions today. Common App President and CEO Jenny Rickard has frequently cited the platform's role in promoting access and equity in the college application process. Georgetown’s adoption may signal a recognition of this broader mission.
However, it’s likely the university will still include its signature supplementary questions within the Common App platform, meaning the quality and depth of application Georgetown is known for will remain intact. The difference? Students will no longer need to create a separate account or duplicate personal information already entered for other schools.
A Georgetown University spokesperson declined to comment. A spokesperson for the Common Application refused to confirm the news, but also did not deny it. We will likely have to wait until August when the Common App announces its new class of members for this to be official.
What students and teachers need to know
Georgetown’s decision to join the Common App is a welcome update for students, parents, and counselors alike. It’s a sign that even the most tradition-bound institutions are recognising the need to meet students where they are — and make elite admissions just a bit more navigable.
At A-List, we always stress the importance of managing application timelines and understanding the specific requirements for each university. While this change simplifies the logistics, students should still prepare carefully for Georgetown’s distinct supplemental prompts and its holistic admissions process.
For rising seniors applying in 2025 (for fall 2026 entry), Georgetown will still use its existing application. The Common App option is expected to be available for applicants starting in fall 2026.
