Uploading Your Transcript
Many institutions now require applicants to upload a copy of their transcript to electronic applications. At this time, central records is unable to send electronic copies of transcripts. You will need to request a copy of your transcript for yourself and use this “issued to student” copy to create an electronic copy:  

• Make a copy of the Hampshire College Transcript Guide, which is on the back of the first page of your transcript. Since the text on this page is light, we recommend that you adjust the settings to darker, to make the text easier to read. Use this as the first page of your transcript.  

• Check the application, or call the admissions office where you are applying, to learn the maximum file size for uploading. 

• On campus: The Duplication Center will be able to create a scanned copy of your transcript free of charge. Let them know the file size needed and if necessary, they’ll work to compress it while keeping it legible. Please allow for at least one business day for the Duplication Center to create an electronic copy of your transcript. 

• Off campus: If there is no limit, scan your transcript into a pdf and upload. If the pdf is too large, scan in “grayscale” and then compress the file, using a scanner that can compress to different size resolutions, and/or using Adobe Acrobat Pro, which can open a pdf and save it as a reduced-size pdf. This software is most likely available at a professional copy center or office supply store (Kinko’s, Office Max, Office Depot, Staples, etc.) Bring a thumb drive with you. Make sure your new file is legible and all pages are included, in the correct order. 

Entering a GPA
Many online applications now require you to enter a GPA before you can complete the application. Since Hampshire College does not calculate a GPA, here are some hints on how to proceed: 

• Check first for any special instructions for colleges without GPAs.

• If you cannot find any special instructions, contact the admissions office to ask if any exist. We suggest that you discuss your transcript with someone who reviews applications. Present your narrative evaluations in a positive manner; click here for more information on applying to graduate school from the Career Options Resource Center (CORC).

• Ideally, a form will allow you to type in “N/A” and space to provide an explanation. If you cannot type in “N/A” because only numbers are recognized, the most straightforward answer would be 0.00, which should serve as a flag to anyone reviewing your application to look for an explanation as to why there is no GPA.

• If you feel your only option is to calculate a GPA from your Five College grades, please be aware that Hampshire College will not be able to verify this GPA.