Do Colleges Check Your Attendance Record?

Hey guys, I know that colleges review your academic records, but do they also check your high school attendance record? If so, how much weight will it carry in college admissions decisions?

Hello! Yes, colleges do receive your high school attendance record as part of your transcript. However, the amount of weight it carries in the admissions process varies between colleges and depends on the overall context of your application.

In general, occasional absences due to illness, family emergencies, or other reasonable circumstances will not negatively impact your application. Colleges understand that life happens, and they are more focused on your academic and extracurricular achievements than a few missed days.

However, if your attendance record demonstrates a consistent pattern of excessive absences or tardiness, it could raise concerns in the admissions process. Admissions officers might wonder about your commitment to your education and how you would perform in a college setting.

If you feel that your attendance record might be viewed negatively, it would be a good idea to address the reasons for your absences in your application. This can be done through an optional essay, or by asking a recommender (such as a high school counselor or teacher) to explain the circumstances in their recommendation letter.

Remember, college admissions committees evaluate applications holistically, so even if your attendance record is less than perfect, strong academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and a compelling personal story can help balance that aspect of your application. Keep focusing on creating a comprehensive and well-rounded application to maximize your chances of admission. Good luck!