Understanding STARS: The New Name for SRAR/SSAR and How to Complete It Correctly
If you’re applying to college, you may encounter a requirement to submit a self-reported academic record—previously known as SRAR (Self-Reported Academic Record) or SSAR (Self-Reported Student Academic Record). Starting August 1, 2025, this system will officially rebrand as STARS: Self-reported Transcript and Academic Record System.
While the name is changing, the purpose remains the same: STARS is a digital version of your high school transcript that you complete and submit directly to participating colleges. It allows admissions officers to assess your academic performance without needing an official transcript early in the process.
Why STARS Matters in Your College Application
STARS plays a critical role in the admissions process at many major universities. It’s often the first academic document that admissions officers review—making accuracy essential. Any mistakes or inconsistencies could delay your application or raise red flags.
Tips for Accurately Completing the STARS (SRAR/SSAR)
To ensure your record is complete and accurate, follow these expert tips:
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Use your transcript – Never guess! Refer directly to your unofficial high school transcript or report card.
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List all courses for credit – Include electives, dual credit, summer courses, and any other class where you earned high school credit.
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Match course titles exactly – Enter class names as they appear on your transcript.
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Enter courses by semester – For example, if you took Health in the spring, make sure you list it as “Second Semester.”
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Double-check credit values – A full-year course (like English IV) earns 1.0 credit, while semester courses (like Government or Economics) earn 0.5 each.
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Use the correct grading scale – Be sure to match the grading system used at your school (letter grades, numerical scale, etc.).
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Proofread before submitting – Have a counselor, parent, or teacher review your STARS entry before submission.
What’s New with STARS?
The change from SRAR/SSAR to STARS isn’t just a new name—it also comes with a tech upgrade to improve your experience.
Key Enhancements:
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AI-powered OCR (optical character recognition) will allow the system to read your transcript more accurately and speed up data entry.
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Improved user experience with a modern interface and new tools for students and counselors.
What’s Staying the Same?
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Your login and existing account will still work.
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Any past or in-progress records are still valid.
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You’ll access the same website: srar.selfreportedtranscript.com
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Participating colleges will continue to use self-reported records during their admissions process.
When Does STARS Launch?
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Official transition date: August 1, 2025
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Early rollout: You may begin seeing the STARS name and features on the platform before then.
What You’ll Need to Complete Your STARS
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Your unofficial transcript or report card
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Your current senior class schedule (for in-progress courses)
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Any standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, etc.) if required by your schools
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A supported browser: Chrome, Firefox, or Microsoft Edge
How to Set Up and Submit Your STARS Record
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Click “Create SRAR Account” (this will automatically become your STARS account)
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Enter your:
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Full name, birthdate, email
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High school graduation year
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Password (must include at least one number and symbol)
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Once logged in, you can:
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Add all high school courses and grades
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Link your STARS record to participating colleges via the “My Colleges and Universities” dashboard
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Check submission status for each linked school
Important: Each college has its own method for linking and reviewing STARS records. Follow their instructions closely.
Can You Edit STARS After Submitting?
Usually, yes. You can log in, make corrections, and resubmit. However, some schools require permission to make post-submission changes:
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Clemson University
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Louisiana State University
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Penn State University
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Texas A&M University
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University of South Florida
Always double-check with each college’s admissions office for their specific policies.
Colleges That Use STARS (SRAR/SSAR)
Over 50 colleges and universities currently accept self-reported records through this system. Some examples include:
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Baylor University
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Clemson University
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Florida State University
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Louisiana State University
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New York University (NYU)
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Penn State University
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Rutgers University (all campuses)
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Temple University
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Texas A&M University
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University of Florida
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University of Texas at Arlington & San Antonio
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Virginia Tech
To view the most up-to-date list of participating institutions, log in and check the “My Colleges and Universities” section in your STARS dashboard.
Final Thoughts
STARS is more than just a form—it’s your academic story. Take the time to complete it thoughtfully, using your transcript and the tips above to guide you. A well-prepared STARS submission can set you apart in the college admissions process and help you make a strong first impression.
