US college applications

Compress a PDF for the Common App

The Common App and individual college portals accept PDF uploads, but large scanned transcripts or supplements can be rejected for size. With application deadlines fixed, a clean compressed PDF saves a lot of stress.

While using the browser tool, your PDF is processed locally in your browser. Choose a target that fits the upload field, then preview the result so grades, signatures, and dates stay readable.

Upload-ready workflow

Choose a target size like 200KB, 500KB, or 1MB.

Preview readability before downloading the result.

Use a browser-first compression flow for everyday upload problems.

FitMyPDF is independent and not affiliated with the Common Application or any college. Always follow the current upload instructions in your application portal.

How to compress Common App documents

Keep PDFs text-based where possible; exported documents are smaller and sharper than scans.

Use Best Readability for transcripts and recommendation letters.

Use Grayscale Scan for black-and-white scanned forms.

Confirm the upload field accepts your file size before the deadline, and leave a buffer.

Try it with your PDF

Upload your Common App document, pick a target that fits the field, and download a smaller, readable PDF.

Compress Your PDF

Upload a PDF, pick your target size, and compress — all in your browser.

Upload PDF

Drag and drop or click to browse

Drop your PDF here

or click to browse

PDF only. Your file is processed in your browser.

Preview & Results

PDF preview will appear here

Upload a PDF to see a preview of the first page

Frequently asked questions

What file types does the Common App accept?

PDF is widely accepted for document uploads. Check the specific field instructions, as some accept additional formats.

How small should my Common App PDF be?

Keep it as small as you can while staying readable. Text documents often fit well under 1MB, and that comfortably meets most upload fields.

Will compressing blur my transcript?

Use Best Readability and preview the file. If a scanned transcript still blurs, choose a larger target to keep grades and names clear.

Does my file upload to your server?

No. Your PDF is processed in your browser. Nothing is uploaded or stored.

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