What is a High School Transcript?
Whether you're preparing for college applications, scholarships, or your first job, high school transcripts are a must-have for showcasing your academic achievements. Your high school transcript is a detailed record of the courses you've taken, grades earned, and overall GPA. Transcripts serve as proof of your academic performance and achievements.
You should know how to get and use your transcripts because you'll need to request them several times in the years right after high school graduation.
Today, we'll discuss what your transcript includes and the difference between official and unofficial transcripts. Let's start with the basics of a high school transcript.
What's on a high school transcript?
High school transcripts provide the following data points about your high school academics:
- Final grades for all courses taken throughout high school
- Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA)
- Class rank (if applicable)
- Credits earned toward graduation
- Graduation date or confirmation that you've met all graduation requirements
What is an official transcript for high school?
Transcriptions can either be official or unofficial. The critical difference between the two is the official version is sealed, stamped, or electronically certified by the school to verify its authenticity. Official transcripts cannot be tampered with.
Official high school transcripts are sent directly from your high school to colleges, employers, or other organizations that want one. Opening the transcript yourself may void its "official" status.
What is a final transcript for high school?
Final high school transcripts are given out at the end of your senior year. They're no different from other transcripts, except for being final. No other classes or grades will be recorded.
Why do high school transcripts matter?
Your transcripts are very important to college admissions teams. You'll be required to send them to the college you want to attend. From there, each school will evaluate your grades based on other factors, such as your college admission essay, letters of recommendation, and test scores.
A highly selective college or university may wonder if an applicant with a C on their transcript has a chance of succeeding in a more competitive or rigorous academic environment. Conversely, applicants with As in AP classes and a capstone can demonstrate college readiness.
How to get your high school transcripts
How you get your transcript depends on your high school, the type of transcript you want, and when you request it. But here are the most common ways to get yours.
Ask your school counselor: Most students get their transcripts by contacting their counselor or the guidance office.
Online school portals: Many high schools use online platforms like Naviance, Parchment, or PowerSchool to accept and distribute transcripts.
How long does it take to get a high school transcript?
Depending on your school’s policies, processing the request might take a few days. But remember, official transcripts are typically sealed or sent directly to colleges or institutions.
To be safe and avoid stress, request your transcript as soon as you know you need it.
Do you have to pay to get your high school transcript?
It depends. Some schools may charge a small fee for official transcripts, especially for multiple copies or if they need to be mailed. But your final high school transcript is usually free and will be given to you at the end of your senior year.
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As you begin to consider college options, it is helpful to know where you stand and how competitive you'll be when you submit admission applications.
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