Should I Inform a Prospective University That I Was Previously Academically Dismissed?

Withholding the truth in your application is considered an ethics violation which, down the road, can cost you your degree. If the application asks you to list all the schools you have attended, you do need to disclose them.

Consequences of Non-Disclosure

If you have a history of poor performance, my suggestion would be to consider pursuing a career rather than continuing with higher education. Every individual has skills in something they excel at, and focusing on finding a job in that area might be a more practical approach.

Disclosure as a Priority

Assuming that your application has to account for various aspects of your life, you cannot easily avoid mentioning the universities you've attended. Lying is not a feasible option. You would need a phenomenal memory to remember all the lies you've told, and the need to be highly creative in inventing details of several years of your life would be overwhelming. The truth will eventually come to light, and you might find yourself dismissed for fraud.

Your Best Bet: Tell the Truth

My advice is to tell the truth. However, focus on putting a positive spin on the situation. Explain clearly and frankly where you believe you went wrong and why you seriously believe that this time it will be completely different. The key here is to be open and honest, as being transparent is crucial.

Remaining Cautious About Language

Even with the truth on your side, it's important to be mindful of how you present your information. I've noticed a line in your details that sounds suspicious: “due to a major illness in the family requiring multiple hospital admissions.” Whose illness was it, and why did it affect you so severely? Was it really a major illness or just a convenient excuse? The phrase “an major illness” is particularly concerning and suggests that you may have been planning to write something different, which you changed your mind about.

These red flags are significant and should not be minimized. Do not attempt to fool the admissions professionals, as it may backfire and lead to even more negative consequences.

Conclusion

Ultimately, honesty is the best policy. While the consequences of previous academic dismissal may be significant, disclosing this information and explaining your situation truthfully could help you gain the trust of the admissions committee. However, it is crucial to be thorough and careful when presenting your story to avoid any potential misunderstandings.