Navigating the Common App’s Courses & Grades Section: A Guide for the Perplexed
So, you’re finally tackling the Common App, that online behemoth that stands between you and your dream college. You’ve carefully crafted your essays, meticulously filled out your extracurriculars, and are now staring at the dreaded “Courses & Grades” section. The question is, “Do I really have to fill this out?”
The answer, my friend, is not as simple as “yes” or “no.” It depends. Some colleges require you to complete the Courses & Grades section, while others don’t. It’s like a game of college application roulette. You’re left wondering, “Will I be lucky enough to escape this section or will I have to face the dreaded transcript-to-Common-App-translation?”
Don’t fret, my stressed-out college applicant. We’re here to guide you through this treacherous terrain.
But first, a little bit of background:
The Courses & Grades section is essentially a self-reported transcript. It allows you, the eager college applicant, to showcase your academic prowess, or, for some of us, the lack thereof. It’s like a digital yearbook, except instead of photos of embarrassing prom nights, you’re flashing your GPA and class schedule.
The Big Question: Do I really have to fill out this section?
The answer, like I said before, depends on the college. A few colleges have opted out of the Courses & Grades section requirement, likely because they find it too much work to verify all those self-reported grades (or maybe they just trust us more than we deserve).
Here’s the deal: if your dream college isn’t on the Common App’s list of “Courses & Grades” requirement, you are free to skip it. You can finally breathe a sigh of relief and move on to the next section. However, if your college is on the list, then buckle up, buttercup, because you’re going to have to fill it out.
How to Enter Grades on the Common App: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s assume you’re a part of the unfortunate group that has to fill out the Courses & Grades section. Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it looks. It’s basically like filling out a spreadsheet, but with the added pressure of your future riding on it.
Step 1: Gather Your Transcript
Just like you need a map to navigate a new city, you need your high school transcript to navigate the Courses & Grades section. This document is your guide, your lifeline, your savior.
Step 2: Enter the Course Name
The Common App will have a list of subject categories. Pick the one that best fits your course. Then, type in the name of the course exactly as it appears on your transcript. Remember, we’re aiming for accuracy here. No creative liberties allowed.
Step 3: Add Your Grade
Next, enter your year-end grade. This is where it gets a bit tricky. The Common App uses a standardized grading scale, so you might have to translate your school’s unique grading system. Make sure you understand how to convert your grades.
Step 4: Credits Earned
Finally, add the number of credits you earned for each class. This information is usually found on your transcript.
Step 5: Don’t Forget the 12th Grade Courses
The Common App will ask you to list all your courses, including your 12th grade courses, but if you’re applying before the end of the first semester of your senior year, you can hold off on listing those courses. You’ll have plenty of time to fill those out later.
But wait, there’s more!
The Common App doesn’t just want to know about your high school courses. It also wants to know about any college courses you might have taken.
How to List College Courses on the Common App: A Guide for the College-Savvy Student
Now, let’s say you were a super ambitious high schooler and took some college courses during your high school career (or maybe you were just trying to get a head start on college life). Don’t worry, the Common App has a section for you.
Step 1: Add a New Entry
Under the “Colleges & Universities” section, you’ll find a spot to add your college courses. Go ahead and click the “Add Another Entry” button.
Step 2: Enter the College Details
List the name of the college or university where you took the courses, the dates you attended, and the number of credits you completed.
Step 3: List the Courses
Follow the same steps as you did for your high school courses, entering the name of each course, your grade, and the number of credits earned.
The Class Rank Dilemma
Now, let’s talk about the dreaded class rank. Some high schools rank their students based on their academic performance. If your school does this, the Common App will ask you about your class rank and how it’s weighted.
Step 1: Weighted or Unweighted?
If your school ranks students, it’s most likely a weighted rank. This means that honors and advanced placement courses are given extra weight. So, select “weighted” in response to the Common App’s question.
Step 2: Your Cumulative GPA
The Common App also asks for your cumulative GPA. This is the average of all your grades, including all the classes you’ve taken in high school. Use the highest GPA reported on your transcript, if there is one. If not, don’t stress. It’s not a required field.
Remember, the Common App is a tool, not a judge. It’s your opportunity to showcase your accomplishments and tell your story. Don’t get bogged down in the details. Just focus on presenting your best self and let your accomplishments speak for themselves.
What if I need more help?
If, despite our detailed guide, you find yourself drowning in the sea of Common App requirements or simply need a second opinion, don’t hesitate to reach out to the JobLoving community. We are a team of dedicated professionals ready to help you navigate the confusing world of college applications. We are here to support you every step of the way.
This is your chance to shine. So, go out there, fill out the Common App, and get your college application game strong!