How many classes should I take each semester?

I'm trying to plan my senior year schedule, and I'm wondering how many classes are ideal to take in a semester. I've heard some people say more classes can boost your GPA, but others warn against spreading yourself too thin. What's a balanced course load that would look good on college applications but won't overwhelm me?

When it comes to determining a course load for your senior year, you'll want to balance two key concerns: maintaining a consistent level of academic rigor and avoiding becoming overwhelmed to the point where it could harm your grades or mental health. Generally, a usual full-time schedule consists of around 5-7 classes per semester, or 4-6 if a student is taking dual enrollment or AP classes, which require more time commitment due to their rigor.

While some students do load up on classes to try and boost their GPA, this kind of extreme schedule often results in burnout and a decrease in self-care and personal well-being, which is counterproductive in both your academic performance and general health. Plus, colleges value deep involvement and achievement in activities outside of class, which can be difficult if you're overly burdened with classwork.

Remember, the courses you take and the grades you get in them are what matter since they demonstrate your course rigor. If you can take more classes while maintaining a high GPA and involvement in a few extracurriculars where you demonstrate significant achievement, then that would be ideal. However, if a high courseload would cause an excessive amount of stress or a drop in your grades, it wouldn't be worth it.

Also, college admissions teams are more impressed by students who excel in a few challenging courses, rather than those who take a multitude of classes just for the sake of it. They are more interested in seeing a purpose behind your high school course selection and how it aligns with your future academic goals. In other words, they want to see that you've pursued a challenging curriculum in areas of interest to you. In-depth exploration of a few subjects where you demonstrate passion and learning can be more impressive than a superficial engagement with a wide array of classes.

So, in summary, aim for a balanced schedule that both challenges you and also allows for meaningful involvement in non-academic pursuits and ample time for self-care.