中文
Tiếng Việt
If you’ve recently submitted your Common App Activities and received a follow-up request to complete something called STARS, you are not alone. In college applications, many students and families encounter this system for the first time; they are usually unsure of what it is, whether it’s required, or how it even affects their application.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what STARS is, which schools use it, and what you need to know before you fill it out.
What is STARS?
“STARS” is an acronym that stands for Self-reported Transcript and Academic Record System. It is a platform used by a growing number of US colleges and universities that allows applicants to self-report their high school coursework, grades, and academic records directly to admissions offices, rather than waiting for an official transcript to be sent early in the review process.
You might have come across the terms SRAR (Self-Reported Academic Record) or SSAR (Self-Reported Student Academic Record) before, which are simply the former names for the same system. As of August 1, 2025, both names were officially consolidated under the STARS name. Existing accounts, submitted records, and login credentials were all carried over, so nothing was lost in the transition.
Here are a few important things to keep in mind in your STARS application:
- Not all colleges use STARS. Schools that require or accept this application will typically notify eligible applicants through their applicant portal or via email after the application is submitted.
- Requirements vary per school. Some schools require STARS as part of a complete application, while others only list it as optional or strongly encouraged.
- STARS does not replace your official transcript. It is used during the admissions review stage. Once you’re admitted and you’ve confirmed your enrollment, your high school will still need to send an official transcript for verification.
You can learn more and access the system directly on the official STARS website.
Which Colleges Accept STARS in the US?
The following list reflects available information about STARS as of June 2026. The schools are grouped into two categories: required or optional. You must always confirm the latest requirements through each school’s official admissions website or applicant portal before applying, as these policies can change each year.
Schools that Require STARS:
- New York University
- University of Florida
- Rutgers University – New Brunswick
- Rutgers University – Newark
- Rutgers University – Camden
- Texas A&M University
- Pennsylvania State University
- University of Delaware
- Virginia Tech
- Clemson University
- University of Pittsburgh
- University of Oregon
- Temple University
- University at Buffalo, SUNY
- University of Tennessee, Knoxville
- University of Rhode Island
- University of South Florida
- University of Texas at Arlington
- Florida State University
- Florida Atlantic University
- University of North Florida
- University of West Florida
- United States Air Force Academy
Schools that Accept STARS as Optional
| School | STARS Requirement |
| University of Connecticut | Optional (Preferred) |
| University of Massachusetts Amherst | Optional (Highly Encouraged) |
| University of Minnesota Twin Cities | Optional |
| Baylor University | Optional (Highly Encouraged) |
| Louisiana State University | Optional |
| University of Texas at San Antonio | Optional (Highly Encouraged) |
| University of New Hampshire | Optional (Strongly Recommended) |
| University of Tampa | Optional |
| Montclair State University | Optional (Highly Recommended) |
| Florida A&M University | Optional (Preferred) |
| Florida Polytechnic University | Optional |
| Kean University | Optional |
| New College of Florida | Optional |
| Duquesne University | Optional |
Note: Requirements for international students, transfer applicants, or students from non-U.S. school systems may differ. Make sure to check directly with each school’s admissions office to confirm what applies to your situation.
Tips for Filling out Your STARS Application:
Even though STARS is a self-reported form, colleges will cross-check what you submit against your official transcript. Here are a few practical tips to maintain accuracy:
Work directly from your official transcript. Don’t rely on your own memory when entering course names, grades, or credits. You must use the actual document when filling out your application.
Enter information exactly as it appears. Don’t adjust course titles, convert grades to a different scale, or recalculate credits. Be sure to keep everything consistent with what your school has reported.
Use the same email address that you previously used for your college applications. This will help the system automatically match your STARS record to your application.
Use one record for multiple schools. If you’re applying to several STARS-participating schools, you don’t need to create separate submissions. A single STARS record can already be linked to multiple institutions.
STARS as a Growing Part of the US College Applications
STARS is becoming more common in US college admissions; it is something you should know before you start applying. If it is required by any of your target schools, be sure to complete it early and carefully to keep your application on track.
If you’re still unsure whether your target schools use STARS, or if you’d like help to build a college list, plan your coursework, or develop a stronger overall application strategy, the Ivy Talent Education team is here to help.
Schedule a one-on-one consultation today and get personalized guidance for your college application journey!
