Why High School Transcripts Are Important Objective 2.01 Why High School Transcripts Are Important

What Is A Transcript? A Transcript is an official document showing the educational work of a student in a school or college

Student Info included on a Transcript A transcript is the most important academic record of what a student has accomplished throughout their high school career. It contains a complete record of their courses and grades, as well as personal information like the student’s age and home address. Using the transcript, those advising students can help them develop a four-year high school plan, beginning, if possible, in middle school. This plan can then be updated and revised as needed throughout high school. School staff and/or outreach staff from institutions of higher education can help with this. The evaluation of a student’s transcript and the review of his or her four-year plan is something that should be done at least once every academic year.

The Purpose of a Transcript While the transcript is important for helping students make informed choices about coursework, it is also a vital tool for those advising students about their goals, options and opportunities. It also can help students shape their future educational and career paths. Educators have a responsibility to encourage and support their students by providing as many positive options as possible, while being realistic and practical. The quality of the advice given to students can determine the path of their future. For this reason, families and educators should pay close attention to students’ transcripts – both what is currently on them and what they will look like in the future – so that students are prepared fully to develop their educational and career paths.

How Is The Information On A Transcript Arranged? The way information is arranged on a transcript can vary greatly from school to school. However, the content of a transcript is generally the same by listing your GPA, class rank, classes you took, etc.

What Is On A Transcript? Courses taken and grades received from all schools the student has attended Course codes and the dates they were taken for each semester An indicator such as a CP, H or AP to designate which courses are college-prep, honors and/or advanced-prep courses Summer school courses Any college courses Test scores, which may include SAT, ACT, AP, etc. Grade Point Average – High school GPA (weighted and unweighted) Class Rank International course work

What Do College Admissions Counselors Examine on your Transcript? Your grade point average (GPA) and class rank: Be aware that some schools only consider core classes (like English, math, science and social studies) when calculating your GPA The types of classes you took in high school: The variety and difficulty of classes will help them see what type of student you are; AP/IB classes will show that you are serious about planning for college, while a course load of non-academic classes will not impress them very much. A consistent GPA: When schools search for new students, they want to see that you are willing to work hard, you enjoy challenging yourself and learning new things and you can maintain a high grade point average. For those who had a rocky start, keep at it! Schools also like to see GPA improvement.

What Do College Admissions Counselors Examine on your Transcript What Do College Admissions Counselors Examine on your Transcript? continued The number of pass/fail classes you took: Earning a passing grade in these classes is often considered a D by colleges. Avoid pass/fail classes so they don’t impact your cumulative GPA. Your behavior record: The only time your behavior record displays on your transcript is when there were any negative reports, such as suspensions or other disciplinary actions.

Add an Extracurricular Resume to Your High School Transcript To supplement your academic transcript, you can add an extracurricular resume, listing all of your after school activities, along with the years in which you participated. Include sections for school activities, awards and honors (both academic and extracurricular), community service, work experience and alumni affiliation.

Quick Tips As you prepare your college admissions applications, request a copy of your high school transcript from your high school counselor or school registrar so you can review it for accuracy. Understand the difference between your cumulative GPA and your GPA for each grading period, and keep track of how you’re doing. Colleges will look at your individual GPA for each grading period but are most concerned with your cumulative GPA for all semesters of high school. Check average GPAs at schools you want to attend. You may find a college you love, but if your transcript isn’t strong enough, you might not be a desired candidate.

References Fletcher, C. (2014). What Is A High School Transcript and Why Is It Important. Retrieved September 25, 2014, from http://www.campusexplorer.com/college-advice- tips/6EFD2352/What-is-a-High-School-Transcript-and-Why-is-it- Important/ Transcription Evaluation to Increase College-Going. (2009). College Tools for Schools. Retrieved September 25, 2014, from http://collegetools.berkeley.edu/resources.php?cat_id=8