Do Colleges Look at a Senior’s First Quarter or First Semester Grades? - It Depends

How do I know if a school requires sending first-semester grades?

Your common application Dashboard>Application Requirements page will show you all that you need to know. MR means mid-year reports (aka first-semester grades) are required or not.

Can I send my grades, even if they are not required?

Yes, if your first-semester grades validate or improve your academic profile send them.

Do all schools review first-semester grades if they are sent?

No, some schools do not consider first-semester grades. The University of South Carolina is an example of a school that only reviews transcripts through Junior year. Schools differ in their policy.

Do I send first-semester grades to Early Action schools?

Most schools will return the early action decision before first-semester grades are in. If a student is pushed from early action to regular decision and the first-semester grades improve their file, they can send grades in.

Do I send first-semester grades to Regular Decision Schools?

Most likely yes. Check with your high school guidance office to confirm their student process to request that mid-year grades be sent.

If a school doesn't see Senior grades - do I need to take a full academic schedule in my Senior year?

Absolutely. Senior year is a critical piece of the puzzle in which admissions will review and consider the rigor of your senior year curriculum as part of the application review.

Please schedule a free chat if you have questions!