Back in the glorious decade known as "The Nineties," applying to colleges was a rather arduous process.  In order to apply to eleven schools, for instance, one would would have to churn out individual applications on--gasp!--a typewriter.  One typo, one inkblot, and you'd have to start all over again.  Fortunately, the application is now less exhaustive, largely in thanks to new technology and the introduction of what is known as The Common Application.

Ahh, yes. When your prospective school of choice accepts the wondrous "Common App," it is indeed a relief.  Essentially, one can apply to most colleges by filling out one common application, then answering a few supplemental questions given by each college individually.  Some colleges, such as Bucknell, do not even require said supplements.  Learn more about the common application to help with your application process.