MILWAUKEE _ Students applying to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee for Fall 2021 can now do so through Common App, a college application platform that is used by more than 3 million college applicants, teachers, counselors and advisors globally each year.

In addition to Common App, UW-Milwaukee will continue to accept the UW System application.

Almost 900 universities worldwide admit students via Common App. By joining this group, UW-Milwaukee will simplify the application process for students interested in applying to multiple universities and better serve low-income applicants. Students using Common App need only fill out one application and provide one set of supporting documents to apply to multiple colleges. Common App also provides a streamlined need-based fee waiver, enabling low- and middle-income students to apply to college for free. More than 1 million college applicants use Common App each year, and about one-third of them are the first in their family to pursue a college degree. That is equivalent to the portion of UWM students who are the first in their family to go to college.

In addition to a single application accepted by hundreds of universities, Common App provides students with financial aid and scholarship information, virtual mentors and online portfolios. It also includes a vast library of counselor resources in English and Spanish.

“Our goal is to make it as easy and affordable as possible for students to achieve their dreams of a college education,” UWM Chancellor Mark A. Mone said. “Our new partnership with the Common App will make it simpler for students to get started, and it will reduce the cost of application for many.”

Students interested in applying to UWM with the Common App can create an account immediately because accounts roll over from year to year. UWM began accepting applications for Fall 2021 on Saturday, Aug. 1.

The Common App is available immediately for new students. A version for transfer students will be available soon. Returning students may not have to re-apply if they have not been away long.