Can You Email Scores to Common App Later? A Guide to Navigating the College Admission Maze
Ah, college applications. The dreaded, anxiety-inducing, and often confusing process. You’ve poured your heart and soul into essays, your parents are losing their minds with the endless paperwork, and you’re pretty sure you’ve memorized the Common App website by now. But then, the dreaded question pops up: “Can I email scores to Common App later?”
The short answer, my friend, is a resounding maybe. It’s like trying to figure out the rules of a game you just started playing, and the instructions are written in a language you only vaguely understand. You’re not alone in your confusion, and fear not, this blog post is your guide to navigating the treacherous waters of college application deadlines and score submissions.
Common App and the “After the Deadline” Conundrum
Think of the Common App as a massive online marketplace where colleges list their “products” (applications) and students are the “buyers.” Now, the Common App, being the well-meaning but slightly bureaucratic overseer, enforces deadlines for “product purchases.” But what happens if you’re a little late on your “purchase”?
In most cases, the Common App, like a strict librarian, will shut down the gates once the deadline passes. No more submissions, no more “I forgot to add my ACT score” excuses. Schools need time to process applications, and they have a finite amount of “shelf space” (reviewers) available.
The Exception to the Rule: A Little Flexibility
But hold on, there’s a glimmer of hope in this seemingly inflexible system. Some colleges, like that eccentric aunt who always throws a wild party, might be a little more open to late submissions, especially if the scores are stellar.
Think of it like this: imagine you’re applying to a prestigious university for a scholarship. Your essays are brilliant, your extracurriculars are impressive, but your SAT scores are just below their average. You realize you can retake the SAT and potentially boost your score, but the application deadline is looming. What do you do?
In this case, you might reach out to the college’s admissions office, explain your situation, and ask if they would accept your scores later. Be polite, be humble, and be prepared to explain why your updated scores would make a difference in their decision.
The Common App’s “Testing” Section: Your Score Hub
Now, let’s talk about the Common App’s “Testing” section. It’s like a digital filing cabinet where you store all your official test scores. You can enter your scores manually (self-report), or you can connect your accounts with the College Board and ACT to have your official scores automatically pulled in. It’s like having a robotic assistant do your busy work for you.
But here’s the catch: self-reported scores are not a substitute for official scores. Think of it like taking a selfie for your driver’s license photo. It’s convenient, but it’s not the official document. Colleges will ask for official scores to verify your self-reported ones.
Don’t Be Afraid to Reach Out: The Admissions Office is Your Friend (Maybe)
Remember, every college has its own unique policies. Some might be more lenient than others, so it’s always a good idea to contact the admissions office directly. They are the gatekeepers of the application process, and they can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Think of them as the friendly neighborhood barista who knows the secrets of the coffee shop. Sometimes, a little chat over a cup of java (or a phone call in this case) can reveal some hidden gems of information.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Panic, Plan Ahead
The college application process can be stressful, but remember, the key is to be prepared and proactive. If you have any doubt, reach out to the college’s admissions office. They are there to help you navigate the process and make sure your application is complete and accurate.
And remember, a good score can only help your application. So if you have the opportunity to retake the SAT or ACT, go for it! But don’t stress out if you’re a little late on submitting your scores. With a little flexibility and communication, you can still make it happen.
You’re Not Alone: We’re Here to Help
Navigating the world of college applications can feel like trying to decipher a cryptic ancient text. But remember, you’re not alone! At JobLoving, we’re here to help you decode the mysteries of the college application process. If you need further help, answer or research resources about can you email scores to common apps later, we’re just a click away!