Rising high school seniors across the country now have access to the 2017 Common Application where they can submit an application to more than 700 colleges with one form.

The website streamlines the application process and allows applicants to use one main essay for all schools.

The essay is used in lieu of a face-to-face interview with college admissions officers or university representatives.

“The college essay can be the deciding factor in a student’s admission to the college of his or her choice. Choose a topic that reflects something about the core of your personality and illustrates what you will contribute to society,” said Joyce Pellino Crane, founder of the College Essay Confidantè, a remote and in-person tutoring service for college applicants.