Understanding Your High School Transcript
As an international student preparing for university applications worldwide, your high school transcript plays a crucial role in showcasing your academic journey. Let's explore what a high school transcript is and why it's so important for your global university aspirations.
What is a High School Transcript?
A high school transcript is a comprehensive record of your academic performance at our school from grades 9-12. It includes:
A list of all courses you've taken
Grades received in each course
Sometimes, may include behavior or disciplinary notes
There are two types of transcripts:
Unofficial transcripts: These are for your personal use.
Official transcripts: These are sent directly from your school to universities or other institutions, usually sealed or electronically delivered to ensure authenticity.
Why is Your Transcript Important for Global University Applications?
Academic Profile: It provides a comprehensive view of your academic strengths and challenges to universities worldwide.
Consistency: Universities look for steady or improving performance over time.
Prerequisites: Some programs may require specific courses or levels of achievement in certain subjects.
International Baccalaureate (IB): these courses demonstrate your ability to handle university-level work.
What Do Global Universities Look for on Your Transcript?
Academic Rigor: Have you challenged yourself with the most demanding courses available at your school?
Performance: How well have you done in your classes, especially in subjects related to your intended field of study?
Consistency and Improvement: Have you maintained strong grades or shown improvement over time?
Balance: Have you demonstrated strengths across various subject areas?
Relevance: Have you taken courses that align with your intended major or program?
Tips for International Students:
Course Descriptions: we provide a "school profile" that explains the curriculum and grading system. This helps universities understand your academic context.
Standardized Tests: Since grading systems vary worldwide, many universities rely on standardized tests (SAT, UCAT, LNAT, TMUA, etc.) to compare international applicants. Ensure your best scores are included with your application.
Predicted Grades: these are predictions made by your course teachers using many different data points to anticipate what your final score will be upon graduating. These can be crucial for universities making admissions decisions before final results are available.
Remember, your transcript is just one part of your application. Universities also consider your essays, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and test scores to get a holistic view of your potential as an international student.
You can request a copy of your transcript here.