Ask Stacy Blackman

Hi - On most of the b-school applications there is a question about whether the applicant has failed a class, been on probation, suspension, etc. In college, I failed a pass/fail class because I had to go to the ER the night before the exam and I couldn't make it up. My school allowed a student to repeat one course, so that is the one I repeated and I passed it the second time. The grade for the first time I took the class switched to "Repeated" and in the official transcript explanation, it just defines "Repeated" as replacing an original grade, not necessarily a failing one. Due to my failing the class though, I did not earn enough credits in that semester and was put on academic probation. The "academic probation" does not appear on my official transcript. The rest of my grades are good and I graduated in good academic standing. My question is two-fold:

1. Should I admit that I failed a class and had to repeat it or should I just leave it be? Everyone I have consulted says its not necessary.

2. Even if I do admit about the failed grade, is it also necessary to come clean about the academic probation? I am inclined to ignore this as well, however, I am concerned that whatever school I enroll in will be able to access this information despite it not being on my official transcript. Is this possible? I'm not sure about the legalities...

Thank you.