With high school drawing to a close, the next step in your academic journey is just around the corner – college. One of the most important tasks in your college application process is getting your high school transcript sent to your prospective schools. Your transcript is an official academic record of your high school grades and coursework, and without it, colleges cannot make informed admissions decisions. Sending your transcripts may seem like a daunting task, but with a little organization and planning, you can make sure that your transcripts are sent to the right schools and on time.
The first step is to talk to your high school counselor. They will be able to provide you with the necessary forms and instructions for sending your transcripts to colleges. Be sure to ask your counselor about the deadlines for submitting your transcripts, as each college has its own deadline. Once you have the forms, you will need to fill them out carefully. Be sure to include the names of the colleges you are applying to and the addresses where you want your transcripts to be sent. You will also need to sign the forms and pay any required fees.
After you have filled out the forms, you will need to submit them to your high school counselor. They will then process your request and send your transcripts to the colleges you have designated. It is important to track the status of your transcript request to make sure that your transcripts are sent on time. You can do this by checking with your high school counselor or by contacting the colleges themselves. If you have any questions or concerns about sending your transcripts, be sure to reach out to your high school counselor for assistance.
Timing and Deadlines for Transcript Submission
To ensure the timely processing of college applications, it is crucial to submit high school transcripts within the specified timelines set by the institution. Different colleges may have varying deadlines, and it is important to adhere to them strictly to avoid any delays in the application process or potential rejection. The general timeline for transcript submission usually aligns with the following key milestones:
Early Application (if applicable)
For students applying for early decision or early action, transcript submission might be required earlier than the default deadlines. Early applications typically have earlier submission deadlines, and it is essential to check the specific requirements of each college for timely submission.
Regular Application Deadline
The majority of colleges have a common regular application deadline, which falls around January 1st. For these applications, transcript submission is also expected by the same deadline. Submitting transcripts before the regular deadline ensures that your application is considered for admission during the initial selection process.
Rolling Admission
Some institutions implement a rolling admission policy, which means they review applications on an ongoing basis. Under a rolling admission system, it is advisable to submit your transcript as soon as possible after completing your high school coursework. Early submission increases your chances of receiving an admission decision earlier in the application cycle.
| Application Type | Typical Deadline | Transcript Submission |
|---|---|---|
| Early Decision/Action | November 1st – 15th | As early as possible |
| Regular Application | January 1st | By January 1st |
| Rolling Admission | Varies by institution | As soon as possible after completing coursework |
Requesting Official Transcripts
Official transcripts are required by colleges and universities for admission purposes. They provide a detailed record of your academic performance and are essential for the admissions process.
To request official transcripts, you will typically need to follow these steps:
1. Contact Your School’s Registrar’s Office
Contact the registrar’s office at your high school and request an official transcript. You may need to fill out a transcript request form and provide a photo ID or proof of identity.
2. Determine Your Delivery Method
Choose how you want to receive your transcripts. You can typically request them by mail, electronically through an online portal, or in person.
3. Pay for the Transcripts
Transcript request fees vary from school to school. Be prepared to pay a fee for each transcript you request.
4. Provide Recipient Information
Provide the name and address of the recipient(s) where you want your transcripts to be sent. Colleges and universities may require you to provide their school codes or addresses.
5. Allow Ample Time for Processing
Processing times for official transcripts can vary depending on the school and delivery method. Allow at least two weeks for your transcripts to be processed and delivered.
| Example Timeline |
|---|
| Mail delivery: 2-3 weeks |
| Electronic delivery: 1-2 weeks |
| In-person pickup: Same day |
It is important to note that some colleges and universities have specific requirements for transcript submission. Check with the admissions office of each school you are applying to for their specific instructions.
Fees and Payment Options
The fees associated with sending official high school transcripts vary depending on the institution and the method of delivery. Here are the most common fees and payment options:
Prices
The cost of sending a high school transcript ranges from no fee to $50 or more. Some schools may charge a flat fee per transcript, while others may charge a fee based on the number of copies requested. It’s important to check with the institution to confirm the exact fee before submitting your request.
Payment Methods
Schools typically accept various payment methods for transcript requests. These may include:
| Method | Availability |
|---|---|
| Credit card | Widely accepted |
| Debit card | May not be accepted by all schools |
| Money order | Usually accepted |
| Cashier’s check | Accepted as a secure form of payment |
| Personal check | May take longer to process |
Additional Costs
In addition to the base fee, some institutions may charge additional costs for transcript services, such as:
- Expedited delivery
- Additional copies of the transcript
- Electronic transcripts
- Transcript evaluation services
Transcripts for International Students
1. Gather Required Documents
International students must gather the following documents:
- Original high school transcript (in native language and officially translated)
- Secondary school leaving certificate or diploma
- Course descriptions for all high school courses
2. Request Official Transcript
Contact your high school and request an official transcript. Ensure the transcript is sealed and stamped by the school authority.
3. Get Official Translation
If your transcript is not in English, you must have it officially translated by a certified translator. The translation must be legalized or notarized.
4. Provide Course Descriptions
Provide detailed course descriptions for all high school courses taken. These descriptions should include course content, grading system, and credit hours.
5. Consider WES Evaluation
International students may also consider obtaining an evaluation of their transcripts through an organization like the World Education Services (WES). WES will assess your transcripts and provide a U.S.-equivalent GPA.
6. Check College Requirements
Review the specific requirements for the colleges you are applying to. Some institutions may have additional requirements or accept certain grading systems.
7. Submit Transcripts
Submit your transcripts and any required supporting documents according to the instructions provided by the colleges.
8. Sending Transcripts Electronically
Many colleges now accept electronic transcripts through secure online platforms like eTranscript, Parchment, or the National Student Clearinghouse. Follow the instructions on the college website or contact their admissions office for details on their preferred method of submission.
| Method | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Convenient and immediate, but security concerns | |
| Online platforms (eTranscript, Parchment) | Secure and widely accepted, with tracking and delivery verification |
| National Student Clearinghouse | Official centralized repository, accessible by multiple institutions |
Sending Transcripts for Early Decision or Early Action
For early decision or early action applications, it’s crucial to submit your transcripts as early as possible to demonstrate your interest and show that you’re a serious applicant. Here are some key details to keep in mind:
- Deadline: Check the specific deadlines for the colleges you’re applying to, as they may vary. In general, aim to submit your transcripts by the end of October or early November.
- Method: Schools have different policies for submitting transcripts, so check their websites for specific instructions. Common methods include:
- Online submission through the Common App or Coalition App
- Mail through the school’s admissions office
- Official Transcripts: Most colleges require official transcripts, which are sealed by your school and sent directly to the admissions office.
- Request Early: Give your school ample time to process and mail your transcripts by requesting them well in advance of the deadline.
- Verify Submission: Once you submit your transcript, check with the admissions office to ensure it has been received and reviewed.
- Follow Up: If you haven’t received confirmation of receipt after a reasonable amount of time, contact the admissions office to inquire about its status.
- Supplemental Transcripts: If you’ve taken any courses outside of your school (e.g., summer programs, online classes), you may need to submit supplemental transcripts from those institutions.
- Mid-Year Transcripts: Some colleges may request mid-year transcripts to review your progress during the first semester of your senior year.
- Additional Documents: In addition to transcripts, you may need to submit other documents such as standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and essays. Check the college’s website for specific requirements.
Tracking Transcript Delivery
Once you’ve sent your transcripts, it’s a good idea to track their delivery to ensure they reach their intended recipients. There are several ways to do this:
1. Online Tracking
Many transcript services offer online tracking. You’ll receive a tracking number that you can enter on their website to check the status of your transcript delivery.
2. Phone Call
You can also call the transcript service to inquire about the status of your delivery. Be sure to have your tracking number ready.
3. Email
Some transcript services offer email updates on the status of your delivery. You can typically sign up for these updates when you order your transcript.
4. Mail Confirmation
If you’re sending your transcript by mail, you can request a return receipt from the post office. This will provide you with proof that your transcript was delivered.
5. College Admissions Office
Once you’ve sent your transcripts, you can contact the college admissions office to verify that they have been received.
Tracking Table:
| Tracking Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Online Tracking | Quick and convenient | Requires an internet connection |
| Phone Call | Personal touch | May have to wait on hold |
| Email Updates | Easy and convenient | Relies on email being received |
| Mail Confirmation | Proof of delivery | Can take several days |
| College Admissions Office | Confirms receipt | May take several days for admissions office to process |
How to Send High School Transcripts to College
Sending your high school transcripts to college is a crucial step in the college application process. Transcripts provide colleges with an official record of your academic achievements, including your coursework, grades, and relevant extracurricular activities. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to send transcripts to colleges:
- Check College Requirements:
Before sending transcripts, verify the transcript requirements of each college you’re applying to. Some may require official transcripts, while others accept unofficial copies.
- Obtain Official Transcripts:
Request official transcripts from your high school counselor. These transcripts are typically sealed in envelopes and signed by an authorized school official.
- Use Transcript Request Services:
Some high schools offer online transcript request services. These services allow you to request and track your transcript orders.
- Provide Recipient Information:
Clearly indicate the recipient’s name, address, and the type of transcript requested (official or unofficial).
- Pay Fees (if applicable):
Most high schools charge a small fee for transcript requests. Make sure to pay the fees before submitting your order.
- Allow Ample Time:
Give the high school sufficient time to process and send your transcripts. It’s recommended to request transcripts several weeks before the college deadlines.
- Track Your Order:
If you’re using an online transcript request service, you can typically track the status of your order.
- Follow Up if Needed:
If you haven’t received confirmation or if your transcripts haven’t arrived by the expected date, reach out to your high school or the transcript request service.
People Also Ask
How do I send transcripts for online applications?
For online applications, you can typically upload scanned copies of your unofficial transcripts. However, some colleges may still require official transcripts to be mailed.
Can I send transcripts myself?
While it’s recommended to have your high school counselor send official transcripts, you may be able to mail them yourself if necessary. Contact your high school for guidance.
What if I lost my official transcripts?
If you’ve lost your official transcripts, reach out to your high school immediately to request duplicate copies. Duplicate transcripts may require additional fees.
