The Importance of Grades in College Placement
Apr 26, 2019WHY IS THERE SO MUCH PRESSURE TO GET GOOD GRADES?
When it comes to college, grades are on everyone’s minds – from the parents to the students. And there’s good reason for this because grades are the number one thing that the colleges look at prior to making any decisions on whether or not you can attend their school. This is why there is so much pressure when it comes to getting good grades.
Saying “I get good grades" isn’t good enough because the standard is going to be different per person. For example, is a good grade all straight A’s or is it A’s, B’s and C’s? Let’s help clear up what really constitutes good grades based on college standards. If you visit any college website, you will find what they will consider good grades based on their GPA standard. This can be a useful tool as you are going through high school.
IS A B IN AN HONORS CLASS THE SAME AS AN A IN A REGULAR CLASS?
You can’t go wrong with A’s. But how does that fit into honor classes? Well, unfortunately some colleges only look at your unweighted grades, this means that it doesn’t matter if it was an honors class or not, an A is an A and a B is just a B. So be careful when considering honors classes, it can hurt you down the line if the curriculum is too difficult. Why, because low honors scores lower your overall GPA no matter what. Surprised, aren’t you? This is why we are here. To help you understand these things.
Understanding your wheel house is important when it comes to taking honors classes. Only take them if you know you can ace them and get that A in that course. Don’t risk a low GPA because it’s a struggle.
TALKING ABOUT RIGOR AS PART OF THE FORMULA
Now, you might be convinced that you don’t need to take honors classes in order to sustain your GPA. Think again. Even though most schools look at your overall GPA, you’re still going to compete against others that have the same GPA and that deciding factor may come down to their honors classes and yours. We would define this as the rigor in your profile. Having mixed honor courses in your profile only shows that you are willing to take risks and succeed in doing so, this could be a differentiator.
In summary, you’ll need to find that sweet balance between taking honors classes and sustaining the highest possible GPA. This will give you a higher chance of being accepted into the college of your choice. Find your groove, embrace it and then run with it. School doesn’t have to be stressful, figure out who you are and embrace yourself. Plan early in your high school years so that you can come out on top.
EARLY PLANNING IS YOUR BEST BET
If college planning is important to you, give college recruiting specialists a call. We can work with you on a plan that makes the most sense for you and your family.
Planning early can make such a positive impact. Not only in saving money through college but the overall future of your children, so don’t hesitate to contact us today and get that future off on the right foot.
