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Duke University
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UCLA
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Is it better to have a high GPA or challenging course load?

Hey there, I'm a junior and I've been wondering whether colleges prefer to see a high GPA or a more challenging course load. I have the option to take some tougher classes next year, but I'm worried it might hurt my GPA. What do you think? Thanks!

11 months ago

Hi there! It's great that you're thinking about your college applications early. From my experience with my own child, I can say that colleges like to see a mix of both a strong GPA and challenging courses. They want to know that you can handle the rigor of college-level work, but also that you're performing well academically. If you can maintain a high GPA while taking more challenging courses, that will definitely work in your favor. However, it's essential not to overload yourself and negatively impact your grades or well-being. Try to find a balance that works for you. Talk to your teachers or counselor to get an idea of which classes would be the most beneficial for you and how they might affect your GPA. Remember, colleges also consider factors like extracurricular activities, essays, and standardized test scores when evaluating applications. So, while your GPA and course load are important, they aren't the only factors that matter. Best of luck with your decisions and future college applications!

11 months ago

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