Difference between numerical and letter grades in high school?

My school uses numerical grades and I'm not really sure how that translates to the letter-grade system used in most colleges. Also, will colleges look differently at my application because our system is different?

In most high schools, numerical grades would typically translate into letter grades for GPA purposes as follows:

-90-100 would map to an 'A'

-80-89 would map to a 'B'

-70-79 would map to a 'C'

-60-69 would map to a 'D'

- Below60 would typically be an 'F'

The exact translation may differ slightly depending on the grading scale of the specific school. Your high school transcript should include a key for understanding the grading system used at your school, so colleges can accurately interpret your grades.

As for how colleges look at your application, they are aware that high schools across the country and around the world use varying grading systems. Admissions offices are accustomed to this variation, and they have experience interpreting a wide range of grading scales. Therefore, you shouldn't worry about being disadvantaged because your high school uses numerical grades. In fact, your numerical grades might offer colleges more specificity in understanding your academic performance.

Keep in mind that what really matters is your performance relative to your classmates - also known as class rank - and your course rigor. Higher grades in more difficult classes (like AP or honors) will generally be viewed more favorably. So keep working hard in your classes, as colleges primarily look at academic success as a potential predictor for success at their institution!