Where in the World is the “Current Courses” Section on the Common App? (And Other College Application Shenanigans)
So, you’re knee-deep in the Common App, right? You’ve probably gotten lost in a maze of drop-down menus, checkboxes, and essay prompts about your “greatest challenges.” And, oh, the “Current Courses” section? You’re wondering where it’s hiding, like a rogue sock in the laundry machine.
Fear not, fellow applicant! It’s not as elusive as you think. It’s nestled within the “Education” section, like a little academic treasure waiting to be unearthed.
Think of it this way: the Common App is like a high-stakes game of “Where’s Waldo?” Except instead of a red and white striped dude, you’re searching for your academic achievements.
Here’s the deal: the “Current Courses” section is where you list your senior year classes. It’s like a snapshot of your current academic life. But, the catch is, if you’re filling out the Common App before senior year, you’ll need to be a bit more patient. You can’t list courses you haven’t taken yet, so hold onto your horse and wait until your schedule is finalized.
Let’s break down the Common App’s “Education” section, step by step, so you can navigate this academic jungle with confidence:
1. The Education Section: The Hub of Your Academic Journey
Think of the “Education” section as your high school transcript’s fancy cousin. Here, you’ll unveil your academic journey, including:
- Current or Most Recent Secondary/High School: This is where you tell the Common App about your current or most recent high school. It’s the starting point for your academic story.
- Other Secondary/High Schools: If you’ve attended other schools, like middle school or a different high school, this is where you add that information. It’s like a mini-timeline of your academic past.
- Colleges & Universities: If you’ve taken any college courses, even online ones, this is where you’ll find a place for them. Remember, those courses might not be listed in the “Courses & Grades” section, but they might have a home in the “Activities” or “Additional Information” sections. (More on that later!)
- Grades: Ah, the dreaded GPA. This is where you’ll input your GPA and grades, so prepare for some serious reflection on your academic performance.
- Courses & Grades: This is where the “Current Courses” section lives! You’ll list your senior year courses and any other relevant academic information.
2. “Current or Most Recent Year Courses”: The Senior Year Spotlight
This section is all about showcasing your current academic pursuits. Think of it as a spotlight on your senior year classes:
- What to Include: List all the courses you’re taking in your current senior year. Don’t forget those electives! They might be “fun” courses, but they show colleges your interests and passions.
- What to Exclude: Don’t try to predict future courses or include courses you haven’t taken yet. It’s best to stick to the courses you’re currently enrolled in.
3. The “Courses & Grades” Section: A Deep Dive into Your Transcript
The “Courses & Grades” section is where you’ll dive deep into your high school transcript. It’s like a detailed report card:
- What to Include: List all your high school courses, including their names, grades, and any weighting system your school uses.
- What to Watch Out For: Pay attention to how many courses you can list. Some sections might have a limit, so don’t get carried away.
4. College Courses: The “Where Do They Go?” Conundrum
Now, here’s where things get a little tricky. College courses, especially if they aren’t for credit, are kind of the awkward cousins of your high school classes. They’re not quite the same, so where do you put them?
- The Activities Section: You can list your college courses in the “Activities” section, under “Volunteer Work,” “Work Experience,” or “Other.” It’s like saying, “Hey, I took a college course for fun (or to explore a specific topic), and I want to share that with you.”
- The Additional Information Section: If you’re feeling cramped in the “Activities” section, you can always use the “Additional Information” section to explain your college coursework. Think of it as your chance to elaborate on your academic adventures.
5. Online Courses: Adding That Digital Edge
Online courses are becoming increasingly popular. But where do these virtual learning experiences fit in on the Common App?
- The Education Section: You can list online courses in the “Colleges & Universities” section, if they’re for college credit.
- The Activities Section: If the online course isn’t for credit, you can list it under “Activities.”
- The Additional Information Section: If you’ve got a lot to say about your online course experience, the “Additional Information” section is your friend.
6. The Common App’s “Education” Section: Navigating the Academic Maze
Navigating the “Education” section can be a bit of a journey, but remember, it’s all about showcasing your academic achievements.
Here’s a recap of the key takeaways:
- The “Current Courses” section is your senior year course list.
- The “Courses & Grades” section is where you’ll enter all your high school courses and grades.
- College courses can be listed in the “Activities” or “Additional Information” sections.
- Online courses can be listed in the “Colleges & Universities” section (if for credit), or the “Activities” or “Additional Information” sections.
The Common App: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Remember, the Common App is a journey of self-discovery. It’s an opportunity to showcase your academic journey and highlight your unique strengths. Don’t stress too much about the “Current Courses” section (or any other part of the Common App, for that matter).
If you’re feeling lost, take a deep breath, grab a cup of coffee, and take it one section at a time. You’ve got this!
Need More Help?
If you’re still stuck, don’t hesitate to connect with the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the Common App maze and guide you towards your dream college. We’ve been there, done that, and we’re happy to share our wisdom and experience.
Remember, the Common App is just one part of the college application process. Focus on showcasing your unique strengths, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way.