Hey guys, I'm a bit stressed about my GPA. Do colleges mainly look at our cumulative GPA (including all four years) or do they pay more attention to junior year GPA? Also, how important is an upward trend in GPA? Thanks for your help!
Colleges generally consider your cumulative GPA as it represents your entire high school performance, which gives them a comprehensive view of your academic abilities.
However, junior year is often viewed as the most critical because it's the most recent full year of grades they have when you apply, and it usually includes more advanced coursework, like honors or AP classes.
An upward trend in GPA can be advantageous as it demonstrates improvement and the ability to adapt to more rigorous academic demands over time. Let's say you had a couple of B's in your freshman year, but by junior year, you're consistently earning A's; admissions officers will likely view that positively, as it indicates growth and potential for success in college-level classes.
So, focus on maintaining or improving your GPA during your junior year, but remember that your cumulative GPA will still be significant in the admissions process.
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