Your college needs an official final transcript showing that you graduated. This isn't automatic-you (or your school) must request it. Most high schools have a system where the final transcript is automatically sent to your enrolled college after graduation, but VERIFY this. If it's not happening automatically, request it yourself. A missing transcript can delay your enrollment or hold your place.
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Understand Your School's Process
- Email your school's registrar or records office: "Does [Your High School] automatically send final transcripts to colleges for graduating students?"
- If yes: Ask for timeline ("When will it be sent?") and confirmation they have your college's address
- If no: You need to request it
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Request Official Transcript (If Needed)
- Visit your school's records office (or online portal if available)
- Form usually labeled: "Official Transcript Request"
- Fill out:
- Your full name, date of birth, graduation date
- Recipient: [Your College Name], Admissions Office
- College's address (find on college website under "Send Official Transcript")
- Expedited delivery: Request rush processing if available
- Fee: Usually $2-$10 per transcript; some schools include it with enrollment
- Timeline: Processing takes 3-5 business days; mailing takes 2-3 business days
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Provide College Address
- Most colleges have an address specific to "Official Documents" or "Records"
- Example: "[Your College] Registrar's Office, 123 Main Street, City, State ZIP"
- Find on college's admissions or registrar website
- If you can't find it, call admissions and ask for the mailing address
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Electronic Transcripts (Faster Option)
- Many schools now use electronic transcript systems (Parchment, Send, National Student Clearinghouse)
- If available, select e-transcript option (arrives in 24 hours)
- Your college will receive it electronically; no mail delay
- Pro tip: Use e-transcript if available-much faster than mailed copies
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Verify Receipt at Your College
- After 1-2 weeks, email your college's registrar: "I've submitted my final high school transcript. Can you confirm receipt of my transcripts for [Your Name]?"
- Registrar will verify it's in their system
- If missing, they'll tell you and you can resubmit
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What the Transcript Shows
- All courses taken, grades earned, GPA
- Graduation status (conferred June [Year])
- Disciplinary record (if any)
- Your college sees this and confirms you're academically sound to enroll