<p>Are first quarter senior year grades visible on early (due November 1) applications? I've done a bit of research on this topic, but found contradictory answers. I know that if they are visible, they matter; my question is about the former. My high school's first quarter ends November 11th, and the grades aren't finalized until about a week later. Does this mean a university I apply to early will only see my Q1 grades if they have not gotten to my application by then? If so, wouldn't that be an inconsistent method of comparison?</p>
<p>You need to ask your GC what will be on your transcript. If your HS waits to send the transcript till after first quarter grades then you are at risk for not having your app in on time. Colleges do give some leeway to things not under your control but the amount of that leeway will vary by school. You can call and ask if your HS can send the update and if they will consider that info.</p>
<p>Many/most schools will call your school before making a final decision and ask your GC for the latest on your grades senior year, official or not. You will probably hear nothing about this - but it happens all the time. Always assume that your grades are being monitored until you have that acceptance in hand.</p>
<p>Ask your guidance counselor how it works in your HS. Almost every school wants 1Q grades before an admissions decision is made. In our HS the GC sends the transcript with grades 9 - 11 on it once the application is submitted so everything will get to the college before the deadline. The HS will then send the first quarter grades to the school when they become available. The update information arrives well before any admission decision is due. Again, your GC can tell you exactly how your HS handles this.</p>