Navigating the Common App: A Guide to Entering Your CIS (and Not Losing Your Mind)
Let’s talk about the Common App, that glorious online platform that’s designed to help you apply to college. It’s a magical land of essay prompts, recommendation requests, and endless forms. And if you’re like most students, you’re probably wondering, “How do I enter my CIS on this thing?”
Now, before we dive into the exciting world of “CIS” on the Common App, let’s address the elephant in the room: we’re talking about “CIS” in the context of “dual enrollment” or college courses taken while still in high school. We’re not diving into the world of gender identity here, although that’s a whole other conversation for a different blog post.
So, you’ve been diligently studying Shakespeare and Calculus, but you’ve also been flexing your brain muscles by taking some college courses. You’re a scholar, a visionary, a future Einstein, and you want to make sure colleges know about your impressive academic achievements.
Fear not, fellow scholar! The Common App is your ally in this quest. Here’s how to navigate the “CIS” (aka dual enrollment) maze:
Step 1: Find the “Education” Section (Because We’re All About Learning)
The Common App is organized like a well-stocked library – everything has its place. Head to the “Education” section. Think of it as the “Self-Improvement” aisle in the library of your college application.
Step 2: “Colleges & Universities” – Where Your Academic Journey Took a Turn
You’ll find a subsection called “Colleges & Universities”. This is where you’ll list all the institutions of higher learning you’ve graced with your presence.
Think of it as your “Where I’ve Been” scrapbook. You’ll add your high school, of course, but you’ll also add that community college or university where you took those college courses. This could be your local community college, a fancy private institution, or even an online program – no judgment here!
Step 3: “Dates Attended” – The Timeline of Your Academic Prowess
Time is of the essence, so be sure to include the dates you attended each institution. This is your academic timeline – a testament to your dedication and perseverance.
Step 4: “Credits Completed” – Proof of Your Intellectual Achievements
Now, this is where you show off – list the number of credits you’ve earned. Remember, every credit counts! This is your academic currency, and you want to make sure colleges know your worth.
Step 5: “Courses & Grades” – A Detailed Look at Your Intellectual Journey
In the “Courses & Grades” section, you’ll list all your courses, including those you took for high school credit. This is where the “CIS” magic happens.
For your dual enrollment courses, you’ll want to select “Dual Enrollment” as the course level. This gives admissions officers a clear picture of your academic journey and lets them know you’re a serious scholar who’s not afraid to push boundaries.
Step 6: “Superscore” – An Opportunity to Shine (If Applicable)
If you’ve taken the SAT or ACT multiple times, you’ve got the chance to use the “Superscore” option. This is where you can cherry-pick your highest scores from each section and present them as your overall score. It’s like building the ultimate academic highlight reel.
However, remember that not all colleges accept Superscores. So, do your research and check each college’s admissions policy. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Step 7: “Submitting Transcripts” – The Official Documentation
This is where the rubber meets the road. Once you’ve entered your CIS information, you’ll need to submit official transcripts from your high school and any colleges you’ve attended.
Think of transcripts as your official academic resume – they provide concrete proof of your accomplishments. Don’t forget to submit them!
Step 8: “Grading Scale” – A Quick Explanation of Your Academic World
The Common App will ask about your high school’s grading scale. This is important because colleges need to understand how your grades translate into their own system.
The rule of thumb here is to use the number associated with an “A” grade. For example, if an “A” is worth 4 points, you’ll use “4.0” as your grading scale.
Step 9: “Cumulative GPA” – Show Them What You’ve Got
Finally, you’ll need to enter your cumulative GPA. This is your overall academic performance, a reflection of your hard work and dedication.
Be honest and accurate with your GPA. Colleges appreciate transparency and authenticity.
The Common App: A Journey, Not a Destination
Remember, the Common App is a journey, not a destination. It’s a chance to showcase your academic achievements and personality. So, take your time, be thorough, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
And if you’re still feeling lost in the Common App wilderness, don’t hesitate to reach out to the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate the application process and make sure you’re on the right track.