How To Add Ap Scores To Common App

The Great AP Score Saga: How to Navigate the Common App Maze (Without Losing Your Mind)

So, you’ve conquered the AP exams, wrestled with the Common App, and now you’re wondering about the elusive AP score submission process. Fear not, fellow high school warrior! We’re here to break down the AP score submission process, complete with enough humor to make even the most stressful college application feel like a breeze.

The Question: Can You Put AP Test Scores on Common App?

The short answer is, not directly. The Common App, that digital behemoth that seems to hold the key to your college dreams, doesn’t have a dedicated “AP Scores” section. It’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.

But hold on! There’s a catch (and it’s not a bad one). While you can’t upload your scores directly, the Common App does have a sneaky little option: self-reporting. Think of it as a sneak peek into your AP prowess, an appetizer before the main course (the official score reports).

Why Bother With Self-Reporting?

You might be thinking, “Why bother self-reporting if I can send official scores later?” Good question! Here’s the deal:

• It’s a chance to show off: Self-reporting gives you a chance to showcase your AP achievements, especially if you’ve got some impressive scores. This is like the “extra credit” of college applications – a chance to stand out from the crowd.
• It can even overshadow your transcript: Remember that time you aced that AP English Literature exam, but your high school transcript doesn’t quite do it justice? Self-reporting can save the day! It lets colleges see your full academic potential, even if your transcript isn’t the most flattering.
• It levels the playing field: Let’s be honest, not all high schools are created equal. Some offer a wider range of AP courses than others. Self-reporting helps colleges see your academic achievements in a broader context, making sure you’re not penalized for attending a school with fewer AP options.

So, I’m Sold! How Do I Self-Report?

Okay, let’s get down to business. Here’s the lowdown:

1. Log into your College Board account: This is your portal to all things AP, including your precious scores.
2. Find the “Send Scores to Colleges Now” button: It’s usually on the first page after you log in.
3. Select the colleges you want to send your scores to: This is where the magic happens. You can choose to send all your scores to all the colleges on your list, or you can pick and choose which scores you want to share.
4. Confirm your request: Double-check that everything’s correct, then hit “Submit.” You’re done!

But What If I Forgot to Self-Report?

Don’t panic! It’s not the end of the world. If you’ve got some impressive AP scores (4 or 5), it’s still worth adding them to your Common App. You can do this by logging into your Common App account and editing your application. Just remember, colleges might not give your late-arriving scores much weight if they’re below a 4.

What About Sending Official Scores?

Self-reporting is just the first step. Colleges will eventually want to see your official scores, especially if you’re aiming for college credit. Here’s how it works:

1. The free score send: The College Board gives you one free score send per exam. You can use this to send your official scores to up to four colleges. This is the most budget-friendly option, so use it wisely!
2. The online score send: If you need to send scores to more than four colleges, you can do it online for a fee. This is a handy option, especially if you’re waiting until after the June 20 deadline to send your scores.
3. When to send: The golden rule is to send your official scores no later than July of your senior year. But each college has its own deadlines, so check their websites for specific requirements.

A Word of Caution: Don’t Overestimate the Importance of AP Scores

While self-reporting and sending official scores are valuable, don’t get caught up in the AP score frenzy. Colleges look at a variety of factors when making admissions decisions, including your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. Your AP scores are just one piece of the puzzle.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Navigating the college application process can be overwhelming. If you need help understanding the AP score submission process or have any questions about your application, don’t hesitate to reach out to your guidance counselor, college admissions advisors, or even a trusted senior who’s gone through the process.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Take a deep breath, relax, and remember that getting into college is a marathon, not a sprint. Good luck!

Need Extra Help?

If you’re still feeling a little lost in the AP score submission wilderness, don’t worry! The JobLoving community is here to help. We’re a friendly bunch of college application veterans who are always happy to answer your questions. Just reach out and let us know how we can help. We’re all in this together!