A transcript is an official copy of your academic record. Some job applications may request applicants provide a transcript with their work search documents. You might be thinking, why does an employer want or need my transcript? There are a variety of reasons an employer may want to review an applicant's transcript. Here are a few reasons why and a couple of  tips for including a transcript with your application: 

1. Course completion, knowledge check and academic achievement: An employer may request a transcript to view the relevant courses you have taken that directly relate to the job you're applying for. They may also make note of noticeable improvements in your academic performance over time. Through your transcript you can demonstrate knowledge of certain relevant topics as well as your resilience and ability to learn and grow from experiences, which can be valuable qualities to employers. 

2. Your transcript tells a story! Academic resilience: If you've encountered academic setbacks such as a rough semester, been required withdrawal, or taken a term off from your studies don't fret. Your transcript tells a story! It is common for most people to have a lower GPA in their first couple years of university, or have to withdraw or take a class over again. An employer can see how you have overcome some of the challenges you have experienced throughout your degree! Additionally, employers primarily request transcripts to verify your enrollment and student status. If a role will be assessing GPA within their hiring process they will typically state that in the job posting. While some might consider GPA during the hiring process, many are more concerned with overall suitability for the role rather than isolated instances of academic difficulty. If you are concerned about your academic standing please reach out to the Arts Undergraduate Student Service team for support! 

3. Official or unofficial transcript: Unless an employer specifically requests an official transcript the unofficial transcript available as a PDF download in your BearTracks account will be sufficient for your application. If a job posting does not specify an unofficial or official transcript it is safe to assume an unofficial transcript will suffice. It is also important to note that downloading an unofficial transcript from your BearTracks account is free. However, if you require an official transcript there is a fee of $6 to receive your document from MyCreds. 

The main takeaway from this tip is not to be deterred by a job posting that requests a transcript in the application. Your transcript is just one part of your application and well crafted work search documents can help you stand out from the crowd regardless of the details in your transcript!