The Great Common App Withdrawal Debate: Should You Include Those “W”s?
Let’s be real, college applications are stressful enough without the added anxiety of “what if I messed up?” and “what if they find out?” Adding to this drama is the question of whether or not to include withdrawn classes on your Common App.
The short answer? You should report all courses on your transcript, including withdrawals.
But hold on, don’t freak out just yet! It’s not as scary as it sounds. Think of it this way: you’re basically just being honest. Colleges want to see the whole picture, the good, the bad, and the “W.” They are more interested in how you handled a challenging situation than in a single “W” on your transcript.
What’s the Big Deal?
You might be thinking, “Why bother? It’s just one class, and it doesn’t even affect my GPA.” And you’re not wrong. A “W” is GPA-neutral, meaning it doesn’t impact your GPA. But here’s the thing: colleges have access to your transcripts. They can see everything, including those little “W”s hidden away. And while they might not hold it against you, it’s better to be upfront and transparent.
Think of it like this:
Imagine you’re applying for a job, and they ask about your work history. Would you leave out a job you quit after a few months? Probably not. You’d explain the situation, maybe mentioning that you realized it wasn’t the right fit. It’s the same with college applications. Explain why you withdrew from the course. Did you realize it wasn’t the right major? Were you struggling with the material? Was there a personal issue you had to deal with?
The Art of the Explanation
Now, you might be thinking, “But how do I explain it?”. Don’t worry, you don’t have to write a novel. Simply provide a brief explanation in the Common App’s “Additional Information” section. Be honest, be concise, and focus on what you learned from the experience.
Example:
“I withdrew from [Course Name] during the Spring 2023 semester due to [Reason]. This was a challenging decision, but it allowed me to focus on [What you learned or achieved as a result]. I’m now confident in my ability to succeed in [Your current major or area of interest].”
Don’t Be Afraid to Be Honest
Remember, colleges are looking for students who are resilient and adaptable. They understand that everyone makes mistakes. By being honest about your withdrawals, you show that you’re willing to learn from your experiences and grow from them.
The Bottom Line
Reporting all courses on your transcript, including withdrawals, is the best way to go. It shows colleges that you’re transparent and accountable. And remember, even if you have a few “W”s on your transcript, it doesn’t mean your application is doomed. Focus on your strengths, showcase your achievements, and be prepared to explain your decisions.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the key points:
- Always include all courses on your transcript, including withdrawals.
- A “W” is GPA-neutral but colleges still have access to your transcripts.
- Be honest and transparent about your withdrawals.
- Use the “Additional Information” section of the Common App to explain your decisions.
- Focus on what you learned from the withdrawal experience.
- Don’t be afraid to be honest and vulnerable.
Remember: College admissions is a complex process, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you’re still unsure about what to do, talk to your guidance counselor or an admissions counselor at the colleges you’re interested in.
And don’t forget, it’s okay to be nervous. Most students are! Just breathe, be yourself, and remember that your application is a reflection of you, your achievements, and your potential.
Need more help? Join the JobLoving community for a supportive space to discuss college applications, get advice from seasoned experts, and connect with other students who are going through the same thing. We’re all in this together!