Which GPA do I submit to colleges?

Hey everyone, so I know GPA is an important part of the college application process, but I'm not sure which GPA I'm supposed to submit—is it my weighted or unweighted GPA? Also, do colleges look at all four years or just certain semesters? Thanks in advance!

Hey there! When it comes to submitting your GPA, you'll want to report both your weighted and unweighted GPA if your high school calculates both. If your school only provides one, then simply report that one. Weighted GPA usually takes into account the rigor of the classes you took (like honors, AP, or IB courses) while unweighted GPA represents your regular academic performance without considering those extra factors.

As for which part of your high school career colleges consider, they generally look at all four years, taking into account the consistency and improvement in your performance. However, they may pay closer attention to the courses taken and grades earned in your junior and senior years, as those are a better reflection of the academic skills you developed towards the end of high school.

Don't forget that your GPA is just one piece of the puzzle. Colleges evaluate other aspects, such as standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation to develop a holistic understanding of your profile. Good luck with your applications!