I’m thinking about applying for a master’s program, but I have a misdemeanor on my record. Do universities usually ask about this? If they do, how much does it matter? It wasn’t anything serious, and it happened a while ago, but I don’t want it to hurt my chances. Anyone been through this before?
Most universities do ask about criminal history, but they look at the whole application. If it’s an old misdemeanor and you’ve moved on from it, it probably won’t be a huge deal.
Fenn said:
Most universities do ask about criminal history, but they look at the whole application. If it’s an old misdemeanor and you’ve moved on from it, it probably won’t be a huge deal.
Good to know. So honesty is the best approach if they ask?
Fenn said:
Most universities do ask about criminal history, but they look at the whole application. If it’s an old misdemeanor and you’ve moved on from it, it probably won’t be a huge deal.
Definitely. If they find out later that you weren’t upfront about it, that could be worse than the misdemeanor itself.
I had a minor charge from years ago, and I still got into grad school. I just explained what happened and how I learned from it.
Blake said:
I had a minor charge from years ago, and I still got into grad school. I just explained what happened and how I learned from it.
That’s reassuring. Did you bring it up in your personal statement or only if they asked?
Blake said:
I had a minor charge from years ago, and I still got into grad school. I just explained what happened and how I learned from it.
If they don’t ask, no need to bring it up. But if they do, just keep it honest and focus on your growth since then.
You should check each school’s policy. Some universities don’t even consider misdemeanors, while others might ask for an explanation.
Bliss said:
You should check each school’s policy. Some universities don’t even consider misdemeanors, while others might ask for an explanation.
Good idea. I’ll look into that for the schools I’m applying to.
Bliss said:
You should check each school’s policy. Some universities don’t even consider misdemeanors, while others might ask for an explanation.
Yeah, some schools have support offices for applicants with records. It’s worth checking if they offer any guidance.
A strong personal statement and good letters of recommendation will help. They care more about your potential than a mistake from years ago.
Xan said:
A strong personal statement and good letters of recommendation will help. They care more about your potential than a mistake from years ago.
Makes sense. I’ll make sure my letters of recommendation are solid.