Compress PDFs for Common App

Transcripts and essays that fit every portal.

Last updated: August 1, 2026

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Upload PDF to Compress

Drag & drop your file here, or click to browse. We process files locally for maximum privacy.

About This Tool

The Common App and college portals cap uploads tightly — transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and art supplements each face strict ceilings, and a single oversized scan can stall an application at deadline midnight. This tool compresses application PDFs to portal-friendly sizes while keeping grades, seals, and essay text crisp, entirely in your browser during the most stressful week of the year.

How It Works

Three simple steps to get your optimized PDF.

Upload Your PDF

Drag and drop or browse to select your PDF file. Files are processed locally and never leave your device.

Choose Compression Level

Pick Low, Medium, or High compression. Higher levels produce smaller files while keeping text and layout readable.

Download the Result

Save your compressed PDF. It is ready to upload, email, or share — no accounts, no fees.

Why Use This Tool

Deadline Proof

Fit portals on the first upload attempt.

Transcript Safe

Grades and registrar seals stay legible.

Portfolio Ready

Art supplements shrink without muddying work.

Records Private

Applications never leave your browser.

Free, No Account

Compress at midnight before a deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What file size does the Common App accept?

Limits vary by section and school — commonly 500KB to 10MB per document. Compress to the smallest listed cap among your schools to be safe everywhere.