Completing a Self-reported Academic Record (SRAR)

Navigating the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) for international applicants to US universities can seem daunting, especially for students studying outside the American system. However, understanding how to align your GCSEs, A Levels, or IB Diploma with SRAR requirements will make the process much more manageable.

Understanding SRAR

The SRAR is a standardized way for US universities to evaluate your academic record. Instead of submitting transcripts upfront, you input your grades directly into the online system. This simplifies the admissions process and ensures accuracy.

General Tips

  • Be Honest and Accurate: Your SRAR must exactly match your official exam results, as discrepancies can lead to admissions offers being revoked.
  • Know Your Curriculum: Familiarize yourself with how your qualifications align with the US grading system.

For Students with GCSEs

  • Course Entry: Enter each subject you took for your GCSEs as a separate course. List them as GCSE English Literature, GCSE History, etc.
  • Grades: Record your final grades, typically the letter grades (A*, A, B, etc.). Only input your actual exam results; do not report internal school grades. This may mean that you input the same grades for both Year 10 and Year 11.
  • Years: Indicate the academic years when you completed each subject (e.g., Year 10 and Year 11).

For A Level Students

  • AS vs A Levels: If you completed AS Levels, report them separately. For A Levels, include your predicted grades if the exams are pending. As with GCSEs, you may need to input the same grades twice.
  • Course Names: Use the official subject names as listed on your certificate.
  • Grading: Record the grades you’ve received (A*, A, etc.), and ensure you’re clear about whether the grades are final or predicted.

For IB Diploma Students

  • Subjects: List each Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL) course individually.
  • Predicted Grades: If you have not yet completed the IB, provide your predicted grades for each subject. You may need to report these for both Year 12 and Year 13.
  • Core Components: Don’t forget to include grades or predicted outcomes for Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).

Common Pitfalls

  • Formatting Errors: Ensure course titles and grades match your official documents.
  • Missing Information: Double-check you’ve included every subject.
  • Incorrect Dates: Confirm the academic years align with your study timeline.
  • Matching US grades to UK years: US Grade 12 is UK Year 13, US Grade 11 is UK Year 12, US Grade 10 is UK Year 11, US Grade 9 is UK Year 10.

Before submitting, review your SRAR meticulously. Some universities may allow you to update it later, but it’s better to ensure accuracy from the start.

By following these steps, you can confidently complete your SRAR and move closer to achieving your goal of studying at a US university.

 

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