COMMON APP

What is my class rank?

MCPS does not rank students.

Do I report my course history by quarter or semester?

Course history should be reported by semester, as those are the grades that reflect on your transcript.

If the course names on my transcripts are abbreviated, how should I write them in Common App?

Do not enter the abbreviated course names. When entering course history into Common App, enter the entire proper course name. For instance, if you transcript says you took "AP GovPolitics US NSL A", you should enter that course into Common App as "AP Government and Politics United States National, State and Local A".

It's nearing the application deadline and it says my recommendations and files are not sent yet! What should I do?

Have you completed the letters of recommendation request process in Naviance and submitted the paper transcript request form in the counseling office? If you're sure you've completed all these steps, you may need to touch base with your counselor, teachers and/or the registrar.

What's the size of the senior class?

You may put 300 for the size of the class of 2024.

Is it better to use my unweighted (cumulative) or weighted GPA?

Whichever is higher and closest to the scale is better. Colleges will see both because they will be on your transcript. NOTE:

• If you choose to use the weighted, it is on a 5.0 scale

• If you choose to use the unweighted, it is on a 4.0 scale

How do I get a Common App fee waiver?

Students who are approved for free or reduced-price lunch automatically receive Common App and testing fee waivers. Make sure your family has submitted the FARMS application by the start of the school year to ensure that your approval goes through by your first application deadlines!

Is Common App Self-Reporting different from submitting official test scores?

Yes. If your school requires official test scores, you must submit them through the College Board website. Be mindful that it takes time for the scores to reach the colleges, so to avoid rush charges and ensure that schools receive your scores by their deadlines, send your scores well in advance.

TRANSCRIPTS & OTHER DOCUMENTS

Can I see the School Profile?

Students do not need to request their counselor's letter of recommendation. You DO, however, need to complete and submit your Brag Sheet through Naviance. To get to the Student Brag Sheet, click on the circle in the upper right corner with your initials, then Surveys from Your School, and then Student Brag Sheet.

How do I request my transcripts?

Transcripts should be requested at least twenty school days before the application deadline. This may vary by college, so pay attention to where you're applying and what the schools' respective dates are.

If you miss the twenty-days-in-advance deadline, speak to your counselor or the registrar.

NOTE: The first two transcripts are free; any subsequent transcript requests are $3.00 each. See the Magruder registrar for information about how to pay for transcripts.

Should I wait to submit my application until the school documents are sent?

No! Submit your application as soon as you are ready. You do NOT need to wait. The school will send the school documents separately.

What should I do if I receive an email from a college saying that my transcript or letters of recommendation have not been received?

Most colleges have an automated email system that sends emails to students about missing documents until someone at the college processes them. So if Magruder has confirmation that everything has been sent, you can rest assured that it has.