Does the Common App Ask About Suspensions? The Truth About College Applications and Disciplinary Records
Ah, college applications. That time in your life when you’re not just trying to figure out what you want to be when you grow up, but also trying to figure out how to convince some random admissions committee that you’re worthy of a spot in their hallowed halls. It’s enough to make your head spin, and then you throw in questions about disciplinary records and it’s like, “Hold up, did I just get transported into a John Grisham novel?”
So, let’s dive into the juicy question of the day: does the Common App ask about suspensions?
The short answer is it depends.
Here’s the breakdown:
- The Common App’s Official Stance: Starting with the 2021-2022 application season, the Common App officially removed the school discipline question from the common portion of the application. So, the Common App itself won’t ask you directly about suspensions.
- Individual Colleges Can Still Ask: However, while the Common App might be keeping its nose clean, individual colleges can still ask about disciplinary records on their own supplemental applications. Think of it like a game of telephone: the Common App says “no,” but the specific college you’re applying to might say “yes.”
- The School Report: The Common App also used to have a school report section where high schools were required to report disciplinary actions that resulted in a change of educational status, including suspensions. But, guess what? They’ve done away with that too!
So, what does this mean for you?
Well, it’s great news for those of you who are feeling a little uneasy about having to disclose a past suspension. It’s a bit less stressful knowing that the Common App itself won’t be digging into your disciplinary history.
But, don’t get too comfortable just yet. Remember those individual college applications? They’re still the wild card. You’ll need to check each college’s specific application requirements to see if they have any questions about disciplinary records.
Here’s the thing: Even if a college doesn’t explicitly ask about suspensions, they still might have access to your disciplinary record through other channels. This is where things start to get a little bit murky.
Let’s clear the air on some common misconceptions:
- “If I don’t mention it, they won’t know.” While you might think you can keep your suspension quiet, it’s not always that simple. High schools are often required by law to report certain disciplinary incidents, and colleges have access to these reports. And, in some cases, your high school might be obligated to disclose information about suspensions even if they’re not specifically asked. So, trying to hide it might be a losing game.
- “A minor suspension won’t matter.” This is a bit of a grey area. While a minor suspension might not be a deal-breaker, it’s important to remember that colleges are looking for students who are responsible, mature, and ready for the challenges of higher education. A suspension, even a minor one, can raise questions about your judgment and your ability to handle yourself in a college environment.
The Bottom Line:
- Be Honest. If a college asks about disciplinary records, don’t try to hide the truth. Honesty is always the best policy.
- Be Prepared to Explain. If you do have a suspension, be prepared to explain the situation. What happened? What have you learned from the experience? How has it shaped you? Colleges want to see that you’ve taken responsibility for your actions and that you’ve grown from the experience.
- Focus on the Positives. Don’t dwell on the negative. Instead, highlight your strengths, your achievements, and your commitment to your education. Show them that you’re a valuable asset to their institution.
- Don’t Panic. A suspension doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting into college. Colleges understand that everyone makes mistakes, and they are looking for well-rounded individuals who have the potential to thrive in their environment.
Remember, every student’s situation is unique. If you’re struggling to navigate the college application process or have concerns about how a suspension might affect your chances of admission, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a trusted counselor, advisor, or mentor.
And, if you’re still feeling lost in the labyrinthine world of college applications, don’t worry, you’re not alone. We’re here to help! Join us at the JobLoving community, where we offer insights, advice, and support to help you navigate the college application jungle.