So, we all know Harvard's reputation - but how exactly does their GPA scale work? I know it has to be more nuanced than the basic 4.0 scale we use in high school, right? Any insights would be really appreciated, thanks!
Harvard College, like most colleges and universities in the United States, uses the 4.0 GPA scale. Grades are usually assigned on an A (being the best grade) through F (failing) scale. Plus and minus grades are also used. Here are the equivalents on the GPA scale:
- A: 4.0
- A-: 3.7
- B+: 3.3
- B: 3.0
- B-: 2.7
- C+: 2.3
- C: 2.0
- C-: 1.7
- D+: 1.3
- D: 1.0
- D-: 0.7
- F: 0.0
To clarify, this is the scale for converting letter grades to GPAs, rather than the scale that Harvard uses to review applicants. When evaluating prospective students, Harvard College employs a system called the Academic Index, a number that summarizes the strength of a candidate's grades, test scores (if provided), and class rank (if available). To learn more about the Academic Index, you can look at the academic profiles of admitted students.
Please also remember that Harvard doesn't solely focus on GPAs or test scores. The school employs a holistic review process, meaning they take into consideration many factors such as personal essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and personal characteristics apart from academic achievements.
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