The Great Common App Course Conundrum: Are Regular Courses Included? (Spoiler: They Probably Should Be)
So, you’re knee-deep in the college application process, which is basically like navigating a labyrinth filled with essays, transcripts, and a whole lot of “what the heck does this mean?” moments. One of the most common questions we hear at JobLoving is, “Do I have to list all my regular classes on Common App?”
Let’s break down this mysterious Common App world, and figure out what you need to include, and just as importantly, what you can leave out.
The Short Answer: Yes, you should list all your courses, even the “regular” ones.
Why You Can’t Just Ditch the “Boring” Classes
Think of your Common App profile as your college application’s first impression. It’s the digital handshake that introduces you to admissions officers. Sure, your extracurriculars and essays show off your personality and passions, but your coursework provides a solid foundation of your academic abilities.
Think of it this way: Colleges are like employers. They want to see that you have a well-rounded skill set, not just a bunch of “flashy” certifications. Those “regular” classes – English, Math, History – show that you’ve got the fundamentals down. College is hard, and they want to know you can handle the basics before they throw you into the deep end of advanced courses.
Beyond the Basics: The Common App and Your Academic Journey
The Common App wants to get a complete picture of your educational experience. Here’s a breakdown of how the “Courses & Grades” section works:
1. The Education Section: Your High School Transcript on Steroids
This is where you enter your high school grades for each semester or term, along with the specific courses you took. Think of it as a digital version of your transcript, but with extra details.
2. The “Other Courses” Section: Where Middle School Makes a Comeback (Maybe)
If you took any middle school courses that appear on your high school transcript, you can list them here. This is more common than you might think, as some high schools offer advanced courses for students in grades 7 and 8.
3. The College & Universities Section: For Those Post-Secondary Adventures
This is where you list any college courses you took while still in high school. Important note: AP and IB courses DO NOT count as college courses in this context.
4. What About AP and IB Courses?
You might be thinking, “Wait, I took all these AP courses, shouldn’t those be listed?” While AP and IB courses are rigorous and demonstrate your academic ambition, they’re not considered “college courses” in the Common App world. They fall under the “regular” high school courses you list in the Education section.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Be Afraid to Be Thorough
Remember, the Common App is designed to give admissions officers a holistic view of your academic journey. Don’t be afraid to list every single course you’ve taken, even the “regular” ones. They all contribute to your overall profile, and you never know when a seemingly “simple” class might spark the interest of an admissions officer.
What If My College Doesn’t Require the Courses & Grades Section?
Some colleges may not explicitly require you to complete the Courses & Grades section. But that doesn’t mean it’s a free pass to skip it. Many schools still use this information to get a better understanding of your academic performance and to compare your grades to other applicants.
So, even if it’s not required, think of it as an opportunity to showcase your academic abilities and add another layer of detail to your application.
The Common App: A Journey, Not a Race
The college application process is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time, be thorough, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. And remember, your Common App profile is just one piece of the puzzle. Your essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars all play an important role in showcasing your unique talents and achievements.
Still Feeling Lost? No Problem!
The JobLoving community is here to help! We’ve got a team of experts ready to answer your Common App questions and guide you through the college application process. We’ll help you navigate the labyrinths of forms, deadlines, and requirements, so you can focus on what truly matters: your future.