How To Report Honors Non Weighted On Common App

How to Report Honors Non-Weighted on the Common App: A Guide for Students Who Are Not Math Wizards (But Still Want to Get Into College)

Let’s be honest, the Common App is like that annoying friend who always asks you to explain things in a million different ways, just to make sure you understand. It’s like, “Do you get it? Are you sure you get it? Can you explain it back to me?” And when it comes to GPA, things can get real confusing, especially if you’re dealing with honors classes.

So, you’re probably asking yourself, “Should I report my GPA as weighted or unweighted?” And the answer is… it depends.

Let’s break it down:

• The Common App is a bit like a game of “let’s pretend.” They ask you to list both your weighted and unweighted GPA. It’s like they want you to show off your “best” GPA, but also be honest about your “real” GPA.
• The Real Deal: Colleges don’t really have a preference for weighted or unweighted, so you can choose the one that makes you look better.
• But… some schools have their own way of calculating your GPA, so even if you submit your weighted GPA, they might have their own calculations.

So, what should you do?

• If your school doesn’t weigh AP or honors classes, then you should report your GPA as unweighted. This means that an A in an honors class is worth the same as an A in a regular class.
• If your school does weigh AP or honors classes, then you should report your weighted GPA. This means that an A in an honors class is worth more than an A in a regular class.

Here’s a real-life example:

• Sarah: Sarah has a 3.8 unweighted GPA and a 4.2 weighted GPA. She should report both on the Common App.
• John: John has a 3.5 unweighted GPA and a 3.5 weighted GPA. He should report his unweighted GPA, because it’s the same as his weighted GPA.

Now, let’s talk about the “Honors” section of the Common App:

• The Common App asks you to list up to five honors or awards you’ve received. This is your chance to brag a little bit about your accomplishments.
• But here’s the catch: If you’re reporting honors that are not weighted in your GPA, you should make sure to mention that in the description.
• For example: If you were awarded the “National Honor Society” award, but it’s not weighted, you could write something like: “National Honor Society (unweighted).” This way, colleges understand that the award doesn’t affect your GPA.

Here are some other things to consider when reporting honors:

• Don’t be afraid to toot your own horn: If you’ve got an impressive list of honors, don’t be shy about sharing it.
• Keep it concise: No need to write a novel in the “Honors” section. Just keep it brief and to the point.
• Focus on the most relevant honors: Choose honors that are relevant to your major or the colleges you’re applying to.

Reporting your honors can be a tricky business, but it’s important to do it right. By following the tips above, you can make sure your Common App application presents you in the best light possible.

Want to impress the college admissions committees? Remember, they are looking for well-rounded individuals who are passionate about their studies, involved in their community, and have a unique set of skills and experiences. Make sure your application showcases these qualities.

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the dreaded GPA section.

• The Common App wants you to be transparent about your GPA, but they also want you to put your best foot forward. It’s a delicate balance, but it’s possible to strike it.
• The key is to understand how your school calculates GPA and then report it accordingly. If you’re unsure, ask your guidance counselor for help.

Remember, your GPA is just one piece of the puzzle. Colleges look at your entire application, including your extracurricular activities, essays, letters of recommendation, and test scores.

So, don’t stress about your GPA too much. Just do your best, and let your personality shine through your application.

Need more help?

Job Loving is here to help you navigate the college admissions process. Our team of experts can answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you create a strong application.

Let’s get you into your dream school!