So I've heard some colleges have reputedly tough grading systems. Do you guys know which colleges are known to be the hardest for students to score As in? It would be good to know if I'm applying to such a school!
As you're considering colleges, it's important to remember that academic rigor can vary greatly, and this is not limited to merely the selectivity of an institution. That being said, there are certainly schools known for having a reputation of grading incredibly hard. Here are a few:
First off, Princeton University is notoriously known especially before 2014, for having a grade deflation policy, where the amount of A's given in any course was capped at 35%. Although they have since discontinued this policy, the university remains rigorous.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and California Institute of Technology (CalTech) are known for their demanding curricula, particularly in science and engineering fields. These colleges expect high standards of performance from their students.
University of Chicago also has a reputation for rigorous grading, especially in their core courses. These courses are mandatory for all students, and can cover a range of challenging subjects.
Johns Hopkins University, primarily known for its pre-med and science programs, is also reputed to have difficult grading. This could be attributed to the high level of competition among students.
Lastly, Reed College has a unique philosophy where they de-emphasize grades. This doesn't mean getting an A is easy, in fact, classes are known to be tough. The school just doesn’t want students to focus solely on their grades.
These above-mentioned institutions are just a few such examples. However, it's essential not to let this information discourage you from applying to any of these schools. If you're passionate about what you're studying, and willing to put in the work, you can excel in any environment. Furthermore, remember that many employers and graduate programs are aware of these reputations, and take it into account when considering GPA.
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