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GPA for college apps: weighted or unweighted?

Hi everyone, I've got a question about college applications. When colleges ask for your GPA, do they want the weighted or unweighted version? Is it usually specified somewhere? I've got a pretty different weighted vs. unweighted GPA and want to make sure I submit the right one.

9 months ago

Hi there! When colleges review your transcript, they typically look at both your weighted and unweighted GPA. However, they may recalculate your GPA based on their own methodology to standardize it among all applicants. This is because high schools often use different GPA scales, course weightings, and calculations, which makes it challenging to compare applicants using their raw GPA values.

On your college application, if the college specifically asks for either weighted or unweighted, make sure to submit what they request. If no preference is stated, you can report both or choose the one that better represents your academic performance. Keep in mind that colleges will still have access to your actual high school transcript, including the details of courses, grades, and any weighting system your school uses. So, they'll have the full context of your academic performance to make their decisions.

Ultimately, while GPA is an important aspect of your college application, it is not the only factor that colleges consider. They also look at other aspects like your course rigor, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters in a holistic approach to evaluate applicants. So, focus on showcasing your strengths across all areas of your application. Good luck!

9 months ago

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