| Depending on what the conviction was for, I think you'll find that the policy varies from institution to institution.
Just be honest and take it as it comes. Some may ask about convictions "within the past 7 or 10 years; in that case you don't have to mention it.
If they ask for ANY convictions, be honest and disclose it. Yes, it will be a negative, but hopefully your grades/knowledge, and the way you present yourself to the institution, will outweigh it. |