Do I Put Classes I’m Taking on My Common App? (And Other College Application Confusions)
Ah, the Common App. The bane of every high school senior’s existence (or at least, the bane of their procrastination-prone selves). You’re wading through essays, crafting your resume, and trying to figure out which college is going to be your new home away from home. And then, BAM! The Common App throws you a curveball: “Do I put classes I’m taking on my Common App?”
Let’s be honest, the Common App can be as confusing as a room full of cats trying to untangle a ball of yarn. It’s chock-full of questions that make you feel like you’re in a high-stakes game of “What’s the right answer?” But fear not, fellow college applicant! We’re going to dive into the murky depths of the Common App and shed some light on this particular question.
The Short Answer: Yes, You Should Report All Classes (But There Are Exceptions!)
Yup, you read that right. The Common App wants to know about all those classes you’ve taken, even if they’re not the most exciting ones (we’re looking at you, “Intro to World History”). They want to see the whole picture, the good, the bad, and the “I-just-need-to-graduate”- classes.
Think of it like a meticulously curated Spotify playlist. You wouldn’t just show the admissions committee your top 10 favorite songs, would you? They want to see the entire range of your musical taste, from the classics to the guilty pleasures. (Okay, maybe not *that* much detail, but you get the idea).
The “But Why?” You Ask
Ok, you’re probably thinking, “Why do they care about my high school coursework? I already have a killer GPA!” Well, here’s the thing: colleges want to understand your academic journey. They want to see how you’ve challenged yourself, how you’ve explored different subjects, and how you’ve grown as a learner.
Plus, colleges often use the Common App to get a head start on reviewing your application. They can take a peek at your grades and see if you’re a good fit before they even receive your official transcript. It’s like a sneak peek at the backstage before the show, and it can give them a better understanding of your academic potential.
Navigating the Common App’s Course Labyrinth
Okay, now that we’ve established the importance of reporting your courses, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of how to do it. It’s not as complex as you might think (promise!).
- High School Courses: This is the bread and butter of the Common App’s Courses & Grades section. You’ll be entering the names of your classes, the grades you received, and the year you took them.
- College Courses: If you’ve taken any college classes during high school (a.k.a. dual enrollment), you’ll need to report those too. Colleges love seeing that you’re intellectually curious and eager to push yourself beyond the high school curriculum.
- Middle School Courses: Generally, you don’t need to report middle school courses unless they appear on your high school transcript. If they do, you can add them under the “Other Courses” section.
- Online Courses: Here’s where things get a tad more complicated. If you’ve taken online courses that are NOT accredited or don’t give you college credit, you can’t list them in the Courses & Grades section. Instead, you can add them to the “Activities” section or even the “Additional Information” section.
The Common App’s “Additional Information” Section: Your Chance to Shine
Speaking of the “Additional Information” section, it’s a great place to highlight any unique academic experiences you’ve had. This could include:
- Online courses: If you’ve taken online courses not listed elsewhere, this is your chance to showcase those skills.
- Independent Study Projects: Did you spend your summer researching a specific topic or working on a passion project? This is a chance to brag about your self-driven learning.
- Awards or Honors: Did you earn a prestigious award or recognition for your academic achievements? This is your time to shine!
- Explanations: If you’ve faced any academic challenges (like a challenging course or a difficult semester), you can use this section to provide context.
Don’t Get Lost in the Common App’s Maze
The Common App can feel like a bureaucratic maze sometimes. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Your guidance counselor, teachers, or even your college admissions advisor can provide valuable insights and support.
Remember, the goal is to present yourself honestly and authentically. Show colleges the real you, the learner, the explorer, the one who’s ready to take on the challenge of higher education. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath, grab a cup of coffee, and remember: You’ve got this!
Need More Help?
If you have more questions about the Common App, or you’re just feeling a little lost in the college application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at JobLoving! We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of college admissions and find the perfect fit for your academic journey.