Don't Forget the Transcript
Your transcript is an essential part of your application packet and is one of the easiest parts of the application to complete. However, the transcript can also easily be overlooked or forgotten. Be sure that you request your transcripts well in advance. Although you can send an unofficial copy of your transcript in your application packet, the admissions committee will also need an official copy sent directly from your undergraduate school bearing the school's seal. If you forget to ask for the transcripts to be sent, your application will not be complete.
Why does the admissions committee need to see your transcript? First of all, it provides proof of your overall GPA. It also shows your grades in your major subject area and in your final years of school. The transcript also shows your general pattern of grades. If, for example, you had poor grades during your first semester of college but later improved, your transcript will show this.
To make sure your transcripts arrive on time, request them at least two weeks ahead of time. You may even be able to request the transcripts months ahead of time; just ask that the transcripts be sent as soon as your next semester's grades are recorded. Be sure to keep a copy of your transcript request. You can also call the registrar's office to verify that the transcripts have been sent, and the admissions office of the schools to which you are applying to ensure that they received the transcripts.