BOSTON — More than 80 universities have promised to make the college application process easier through a new website where students will be able to submit applications to many schools, and get coaching to compile a “digital portfolio” of their academic accomplishments.
Some of the top names in higher education are joining the effort under a new coalition called the Coalition for Access, Affordability and Success.
Their goal is to remove barriers to the application process, especially from low-income students and first-generation college students. The coalition includes private colleges like Harvard and Yale, along with public schools like the University of Florida and The Ohio State University.
As soon as summer 2016, some schools in the group will let students apply through the new website. Others are still deciding when to implement it.
The online system includes several tools aimed to get students started on their applications earlier and to create a portfolio of their work. Their high-school teachers and counselors can provide feedback and editing through the system, and students will be linked to college officials who can answer questions.
More details about the website’s tools weren’t immediately available, but the group said it will unveil more in coming months.
Chief among the coalition’s goals is to boost the number of low-income and minority students who apply for college. Researchers have found that complex applications can be a barrier to college, especially for those who don’t have the resources to help them through the process.
