Do referrals show up on high school records?

I got a referral in high school, and I'm a little bit stressed about it affecting my college applications. Does a referral go on my high school record? And if so, do colleges care or look at that kind of thing?

Referrals can show up on your high school disciplinary record, which is separate from your academic transcript, but the specifics depend on your school's policies. Some schools may include referrals, while others may not. You can check with your guidance counselor or school administration to confirm whether your referral is documented or not.

As for college applications, admissions officers may be interested in a student's disciplinary history, but they typically prioritize academic performance, extracurricular activities, and character evidence (such as essays and letters of recommendation). Your referral might be considered if the college specifically requests disciplinary records in the application process, but it's important to remember that admissions decisions are made using a holistic approach. This means that one referral, especially if it is a minor incident and isn't part of a pattern of concerning behavior, is unlikely to have a significant impact on your chances of admission.

If you're asked to disclose disciplinary actions during the application process, it's essential to be honest about the referral and take responsibility for your actions. You can use the opportunity to describe the situation, what you learned from it, and how you've grown since the incident. Demonstrating maturity and personal growth can help alleviate any concerns the college admissions officers might have about the referral.

In conclusion, while a referral may appear on your high school disciplinary record, it should not heavily impact your college application if it's an isolated incident. Just make sure to be honest, take responsibility, and highlight the lessons you've learned from the experience if asked.