Schools that require SRAR - What's up with that?

I came across some colleges that require the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) instead of a transcript. Can someone explain what exactly the SRAR is and which schools usually require it for their application process?

The Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) is an alternative to sending in official transcripts during the college application process. With SRAR, you manually input your high school courses and the respective grades into an online form provided by the college(s) to which you're applying. The SRAR enables colleges to review your academic performance without the need for an official transcript, at least in the initial stages of the application process.

The main advantage of the SRAR is that it streamlines the application process for both students and colleges. Colleges can get a faster, more standardized view of your academic record, while students save on processing fees and time associated with requesting official transcripts.

Here's how it typically works:

1. You create an account on the college's SRAR portal or a centralized SRAR website.

2. You manually enter your high school course and grade information, carefully ensuring accuracy by referring to an unofficial transcript or report card.

3. The SRAR is submitted along with your application.

Keep in mind that if you're offered admission and choose to enroll, you'll need to send in an official transcript to verify the accuracy of the self-reported information. Any discrepancies can lead to rescinded admissions offers.

Several colleges and universities have adopted the SRAR process, including Rutgers University, New York University, and all institutions within the University of California system, among others. It's not a universal approach, though so you should always double-check each school's application requirements to determine if they require a SRAR, official transcripts, or another method, such as uploading an unofficial transcript.

Finally, remember to be meticulous when inputting your information into the SRAR to avoid issues with your application. Review the college's guidelines for entering course and grade data, and have a copy of your unofficial transcript or detailed report card handy to ensure accuracy. Best of luck with your college applications!