Should I fill my "Courses and Grades" section on the Common App even if my schools doesn't require it?Answered
On the Common App, there is a section titled "Courses and Grades" that I'm not required to fill out for any of my schools. Is it still beneficial for me to complete it anyway? Also, if I choose not to fill it out, how would I send my transcript to colleges?
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2 answers
Yes! Some schools may still look at it, even if they don't require it. From what I know, it can (depending on the college) help accelerate an admissions decision because they can review your grades before they get an official transcript. If you don't fill it out (or you do but they still require an official transcript), talk to your guidance counselor. They have a process to send transcripts to schools.
You should fill out any "optional" part of your app (extracurriculars, supplemental essays, test scores, etc.) unless you are CERTAIN it will make you a weaker applicant. For example, if you have an SAT below the 50th percentile for your school, if it's optional to submit I wouldn't report that score.
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