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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 a rigorous course schedule?

Hey everyone, I'm a high school junior and I have a question about college admissions. Is it better to have a high GPA with easier classes, or a slightly lower GPA with a more rigorous course schedule? Which do colleges prefer? Thanks for your help!

a year ago

Hi there! It's great that you're thinking about college admissions. From my experience with my own child's college application process, I can tell you that both your GPA and the rigor of your course schedule are important.

However, an important aspect colleges consider is the balance between the two. They want to see that you have challenged yourself academically, but also that you have been able to maintain good grades throughout your high school career. It's not necessarily a one-or-the-other situation. If you can find a balance and take challenging courses while maintaining a strong GPA, that would be the most attractive to college admissions officers. Basically, if you think you can get a B or above in an advanced course, you should go with the advanced course option over the regular one.

Make sure to also focus on other aspects of your application, like extracurricular activities, community service, and essays, as they can make a difference too. Best of luck!

a year ago

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