The Truth About High School Grades

If you're a high school student with college aspirations or a parent supporting one, there's a fundamental truth you need to understand: straight A's don't carry the weight they once did. This isn't meant to discourage hard work, but rather to provide clarity about the current educational landscape and help you navigate it more effectively.

According to Inside Higher Ed, over 47% of high school students now graduate with A averages, yet actual student achievement has been declining across multiple measures. While grades have been steadily climbing since the 1990s, performance on standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP exams has been falling. Students are achieving higher grades in more advanced classes without corresponding gains in actual proficiency, creating a gap between perceived and real learning.

The consequences extend far beyond high school hallways. High school GPAs, once considered the best predictor of college success, have lost much of their predictive value. While many colleges initially dropped SAT and ACT requirements, selective institutions are now bringing these standardized tests back because they desperately need objective measures they feel they can trust. Students armed with excellent grades often march off to college only to find themselves placed in remedial courses because they haven't actually mastered the material their grades suggested they had.

This disconnect affects everyone. Employers complain that graduates lack basic workforce skills. College professors report that incoming students struggle with fundamental tasks like reading books thoroughly. Parents are often shocked when their straight-A students face rejection from selective universities, not realizing that in today's landscape, an A truly has become average.

The challenge for today's students is figuring out how to differentiate themselves when everyone seems to have identical transcripts. Many hardworking students have responded by piling on academic rigor, taking increasingly heavy course loads. However, this approach often backfires. Taking eleven AP classes might look impressive on paper. Still, it fundamentally changes the high school experience and can compromise the mental health and well-being that adolescents need to thrive.

While high school grades are determined using different rubrics across schools and teachers, standardized assessments like AP and IB exams are graded according to the same criteria nationwide. For students who have access to AP or IB programs, their scores can be a more reliable measure,but this path is not available or for everyone. This means that although an "A" in a high school class may be a weaker signal than it used to be, a score of 4 or 5 on an AP exam hasn't experienced the same decline in meaning. A student who can demonstrate objective mastery on a criterion-referenced test provides powerful validation of their classroom grades.

Students navigating this landscape should shift focus from grade accumulation to genuine learning and mastery. Rather than asking "How can I get an A?" ask "Am I actually learning this material?" Choose depth over breadth by selecting fewer courses where you can achieve genuine mastery and strong standardized test performance. Instead of retaking tests for higher grades, spend that time ensuring you understand the underlying concepts that will serve you in college. Seek meaningful challenges by choosing a few substantial extracurricular commitments over multiple superficial activities that you believe will look good on applications.

Parents play a crucial role in helping their children maintain perspective. While it's natural to want children to succeed, the definition of success needs to include happiness, health, and genuine preparation for future challenges. Remember that straight A's don't guarantee admission to selective schools, and the goal isn't just to accumulate impressive-looking credentials but to develop skills and knowledge needed for lifelong success.

This doesn't mean grades don't matter or that students should stop working hard. Rather, it means putting grades in their proper context as one measure among many, and recognizing that in an era of grade inflation, objective demonstrations of knowledge and skill carry more weight than ever before.

The students who will thrive in college and beyond are those who focus on genuine mastery, maintain their well-being, and develop the critical thinking and learning skills that no amount of grade inflation can fake. Colleges increasingly want students who can actually succeed in their programs, not just students with perfect GPAs.

In a world where an A has become average, the real differentiator isn't the grade itself but the authentic learning and growth it's supposed to represent. By keeping this perspective and focusing on substance over statistics, students and families can navigate the current educational landscape more successfully while preserving what matters most: genuine education, personal growth, and the foundation for lifelong learning and achievement.

Transitioning from Subject Interest to College Major

One of the most significant decisions your child will face in college is choosing a major. As a parent, your role is to decide guide, support, and help them explore options with confidence.

Choosing a major isn’t a one-time decision; it’s a process of exploration. By combining honest self-assessment, real conversations with professionals, and ongoing curiosity, your student can make thoughtful choices that lead to both fulfillment and opportunity. Keep in mind that only about 46% of graduates end up working directly in their field of study, which shows how often skills transfer across careers.

High school coursework lays an important foundation. Students who complete a well-rounded set of challenging academic classes keep more doors open when it comes to college majors. They enter college better prepared and less likely to spend time catching up in subjects they avoided. Remember, roughly one-third to half of the classes a college student takes will be in their major, so a strong general foundation pays off.

Encourage exploration beyond the classroom. Support your child’s involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and hobbies that reflect genuine interests. Summer enrichment programs, internships, or part-time jobs help students “test drive” interests. Just as valuable are conversations with adults who work in careers that interest your teen. Encourage your student to ask questions: What does a typical day look like? What did you major in? What do you wish you’d known in college? These conversations often spark insight and confidence.

Many high schoolers have only a vague idea of how majors differ in focus, workload, or style of learning. Together, look at curriculum guides on college websites to see what courses are required for different majors. Marquette University’s “Choosing Your Major” page offers a clear overview of how to explore academic interests and connect them to career paths.

Encourage them to use free online tools to understand their strengths and interests better. Students can also explore the O*NET Interest Profiler, which matches personal interests with potential career fields, the 123test Career Test, or the University of Arizona’s CareerExplorer, which links personality traits and skills to career options. Using multiple assessments helps reveal consistent patterns and new ideas.

When your student gets their results, encourage reflection rather than rigid conclusions. Ask: Which careers sound exciting or surprising? Which feels like me? Then take it a step further, talk with professionals or family members in various fields, seek out summer internships or programs where you can explore majors/fields.  Interests often evolve, so revisiting these tools every year or two can be eye-opening.

As you and your student look at colleges, ask about academic advising and career support. A good advising program helps students make informed choices, plan course loads, and connect with internships and mentors. Even the best services, however, only work when students use them. Encourage your child to meet with advisors early, even if they think they already know their path.

Finally, reassure your teen that it’s okay to change direction. According to several sources, 35%-80% of students change majors. Studies show that switching majors doesn’t always delay graduation and can actually lead to a better academic fit.

How to Find Colleges that Offer Merit Aid

Perhaps you’ve realized that you won’t qualify for need-based aid after running net price calculator tools or an SAI tool. That can be discouraging. The good news is that many colleges award merit aid, which is money given for achievement rather than financial need. Understanding how merit aid works, how it differs from need-based aid, and how to find generous colleges can make a difference.

Merit Aid vs. Need-Based Aid

• Need-based aid depends on your financial situation, as calculated through the FAFSA and/or the CSS Profile. Federal grants, subsidized loans, college/university grants, and work-study programs fall into this category.

• Merit aid is different. It’s awarded for academic success, leadership, or unique talents, or other strengths that make a student stand out, regardless of income or assets. Colleges use it to attract students who would enhance their community or academic reputation.

Some colleges offer only need-based aid, while others provide large merit awards to students they especially want to enroll. Knowing which type of school you’re dealing with can help you focus your search.

In his book Who Gets In and Why, Jeff Selingo describes colleges as either buyers or sellers in the admissions marketplace.

Seller schools are the well-known, highly selective universities such as Harvard, Stanford, and Amherst. They admit a small percentage of applicants, and all of their financial support is need-based.

Buyer schools are institutions that compete for strong students. They may have higher acceptance rates or be trying to raise their academic profile, so they use merit scholarships to attract applicants. Understanding this buyer-seller model can help you build a smart and budget-friendly college list. Look for high-quality “buyer” schools where your GPA and test scores place you in the top 25 percent of admitted students. That is where you’re most likely to receive generous merit aid. Examples include Dickinson College, Elon University, and Santa Clara University.

How to Use the Common Data Set

The Common Data Set (CDS) is one of the best tools for finding schools that give significant merit aid. It’s a standardized report that colleges post online. It can be found by searching for the college's name and the term "Common Data Set."

When you find it, scroll to Section H, titled Financial Aid, and look for:

• Percentage of students without financial need who received merit aid. A figure above 10 to 15 percent shows that the school awards merit aid.

• Average non-need-based scholarship amount. If the average is $20,000 or more, the college is generous with top applicants.

• Overall percentage of students receiving institutional aid. This shows how much the college uses scholarships to shape its incoming class.

By comparing this data across several colleges, you can identify where your academic profile might lead to substantial awards. 

It’s also worth knowing that some colleges offer full-tuition or even full-ride scholarships for students with exceptional grades and test scores. These awards are highly competitive and may require separate applications. 

A good place to start is by checking lists of full-tuition scholarships available at various universities.

• Keep in mind that not all schools allow merit and financial aid to be combined. Policies vary by institution regarding the stacking or combining of various types of aid. Contact the financial aid office at each school to confirm how they handle different types of aid in combination.

A smart approach is to group colleges by how they handle merit aid:

• Likely full-pay (sellers): Highly selective private universities and top public flagships that give little or no merit aid.

• Likely partial-merit (moderate buyers): Strong regional or mid-tier national universities that award $10,000 to $25,000 per year to top students.

• High-merit potential (aggressive buyers): Colleges seeking to raise rankings or geographic diversity that may offer generous merit aid, including full-tuition or full-ride scholarships.

Next, compare your GPA and test scores with each school’s middle 50 percent range. If you’re above the midpoint, you’re in the zone for merit aid.

The Bottom Line

Finding colleges that offer merit aid is about strategy, not luck. It begins with understanding buyers and sellers, then using tools like the CDS to see where your accomplishments are most valued.

As Jeff Selingo reminds readers, college admissions isn’t about finding one perfect school. It’s about finding the right fit for your goals, personality, and budget. When you focus on value and alignment rather than name recognition, you often discover that a reasonable (for you) financial offer can also be one of many great-fit schools.

College Financing

College planning is always challenging, but in 2025, things are especially unpredictable. Costs are rising, financial aid systems are evolving, and many uncertainties remain. It can feel overwhelming for families trying to find the right school for their student, both academically and financially.

When approaching college planning, it's essential to think of college as both a consumer purchase and an investment, not just a dream. Families need to plan wisely by figuring out their budget before shopping for college. Running Net Price Calculators before visiting colleges can provide directional data points. Taking out huge loans in the first year is unlikely to be the best path for most families.

The passing of the Congressional spending bill in July 2025 will have a major impact on college funding for years to come. Beginning July 1, 2026, the federal government will significantly limit how much parents can borrow for their children's education. Parents will now be capped at borrowing $20,000 per year and $65,000 total per child through the Parent PLUS loan program, ending the previous practice of unlimited borrowing up to the full cost of attendance. Additionally, families will have fewer loan repayment options, as the new law consolidates multiple repayment plans into just two options.

If loans will be needed, work on improving credit scores now for both parents and students. Private loans depend heavily on creditworthiness, so early preparation matters. Keep loans minimal, especially in early college years, and remember that under the new law, Parent PLUS loans will not be eligible for income-driven repayment programs.

Understanding the new federal loan landscape is vital for planning. The changes taking effect July 1, 2026, represent the most significant overhaul of federal student lending in decades. When it comes to loan repayment, families shouldn't count on loan forgiveness programs. Instead, they should plan as if they will repay loans in full. Paying interest during college can help keep future payments lower, so it's important to research and understand the new streamlined loan repayment options. Keeping records of all loan payments and scholarship offers is essential for future reference.

Merit-based aid is often awarded to students by moderately and less selective colleges that are using the possibility of a scholarship to entice a terrific student to enroll. The vast majority of highly selective colleges do not offer merit-based aid to students at all and reserve their aid for students with demonstrated financial need. If they do offer merit aid, it is a competitive process.

Expect delays from overwhelmed financial aid offices. Submit FAFSA and CSS forms accurately and early, and prepare for potential delays from the underfunded and understaffed Department of Education. Be patient with college staff who are also struggling with increased workloads as they navigate these unprecedented changes to federal aid programs.

Above all, thorough research is the key to navigating this new landscape. Families should look beyond the initial cost of attendance for the first year and review housing after year one, miscellaneous expenses like Greek life and off-campus social activities, along with additional program expenses. Stay current with news and remain flexible; don't let college rankings or the perceived value of a college based on its name recognition influence your decisions.

Early planning and research are the keys to finding an affordable path to college in this new era. While the challenges are significant, families who approach the process thoughtfully and realistically can still find educational opportunities that fit their financial circumstances.

Focus on Majors: Pre-Med

When you tell someone you want to be a doctor, the path ahead can seem pretty clear: major in biology, go to college, spend your weekends in a research lab, and volunteer at a hospital. That's what most pre-med students do, right? But if you're serious about getting into medical school one day, you might need to take a step back and rethink that whole plan. Standing out as a future medical school applicant isn't about following the crowd—it's about making intentional, personal choices that align with your interests and strengths.

First, let's clear something up. Pre-med isn't a major. It's a set of required courses and a goal, not a field of study. Many successful applicants to medical school major in something totally unexpected, such as Spanish, drama, or even music. They still take biology, chemistry, and physics, just like everyone else, but they stand out because their major reflects who they are and what they love. Because they enjoy what they're studying, they're more likely to earn higher grades, which matters far more than whether your major sounds "med-school-y."

This is a hard concept for many students to accept. It's tempting to think that choosing a big-name school or majoring in biology gives you a competitive edge. But admissions committees aren't impressed by the sameness. If most of your competition looks just like you on paper—same major, same volunteer work, same answers to "Why do you want to be a doctor?"—you're going to blend in, not rise to the top. However, if you've spent your summers working with underserved populations while majoring in political science and conducting research on public health policy, you'll stand out regardless of where you attend college!

So, how do you find the right college for pre-med? Forget prestige for a moment and ask better questions. Does the college offer strong pre-health advising? Is there a system in place to help students connect with research and shadowing opportunities? 

Are introductory science classes enormous and graded on a curve, which can be discouraging for students trying to earn top grades? Will you be able to build relationships with your professors, who will one day write your recommendation letters?

A liberal arts college might not have a giant medical center, but it may offer better access to faculty and smaller class sizes. A large university might have more clinical opportunities, but you'll have to be more proactive about seeking them out. Neither option is universally better—it depends on your learning style, personality, and priorities. That's why "fit" matters more than "famous."

In high school, you can start laying the foundation by cultivating your curiosity, work ethic, and people skills. Explore your academic interests broadly. Join activities that help you learn leadership, communication, or teamwork. If you're able, shadow a local doctor or volunteer in a health-related setting, not because you think you're supposed to, but to see if you actually enjoy being in that world.

Once you get to college, pace yourself. Too many students overload themselves during freshman year, chasing an imaginary timeline that says they have to apply to med school by the end of junior year. That kind of pressure can backfire. It's okay, wise even, to take a little longer and apply at the end of your senior year or even take a gap year to allow more time for MCAT and application preparation.

The most successful pre-meds aren't the ones who follow the script—they're the ones who write their own. They don't just check off boxes; they pursue opportunities that align with who they are. They know how to talk about their experiences with real insight and compassion. They aren't perfect, but they're genuine.

So, as you think about college and your future in medicine, don't try to be the "ideal" pre-med college applicant. Be the most authentic, curious, and committed version of yourself. That's what medical schools will be seeking.

Social Media and College Admissions

Okay students, let's be real. Your life is probably all over social media. From TikTok dances to Insta-worthy sunsets to those hilarious Snapchat streaks, it’s how you connect, express yourself, and keep up with everything. But here's a thought that might make you pause before your next post: colleges might be watching. Yes, admission officers could be scrolling through your feeds, and what they see might impact your future.

Are colleges checking your social media? While not guaranteed, it's possible. Think of it this way: Admissions officers want to see beyond your academic achievements. A survey found that 28% actually review applicants' online presence. An admissions officer would investigate your social media accounts if they receive reports about harmful content about an admitted student. Check your privacy settings and use caution when sharing your social media account.

Let's talk about the worst-case scenario. Remember that story about Harvard rescinding offers to students who shared offensive memes? Or the student who lost their spot after a questionable video surfaced? No college wants a student who will bring negativity or controversy to campus.

Use social media to your advantage. Flip the script and view it as a tool to boost your college chances. Think of it as your chance to shine. Did you win an award? Crush a volunteer project? Create something amazing? Share it! Colleges love seeing passionate, driven students. Another smart move? Engage with the schools you're interested in. Follow them, comment thoughtfully on their posts, and show some love for their campus vibes.

Basically, think of your social media as your personal brand. What do you want it to say about you? Does it showcase your interests, your personality, and your goals?

Before you freak out, take a deep breath and do a little social media spring cleaning. Scroll back through your profiles and ask yourself, "Would I want a college admissions officer to see this?" “ Would you want a grandparent to see your post?” If the answer is no, then get rid of it! Adjust your privacy settings, Google yourself to see what comes up, and remember that even private posts can sometimes find their way into the public eye.

Bottom line? Social media is powerful. Use it wisely, show your best self, and make sure your online presence reflects the amazing person you are. Because when it comes to college admissions, you want to be ready for your close-up.

How Volunteering Enhances your Life

Even though some high schools require community service to graduate, the best reason to volunteer has nothing to do with resumes, applications, or future plans. The best reason is that you care.

You don’t have to travel far to make a difference—some of the most powerful acts of service happen right in your own community. Whether you're tutoring a younger student, walking dogs at a shelter, or helping at a food pantry, showing up consistently makes a real impact.

And here’s something else that’s real: volunteering doesn’t just help others, it helps you, especially when it comes to mental health.

Teen years can be tough. School pressure, social stress, constant notifications, and uncertainty about the future can pile up quickly. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or even isolated. Volunteering can be a powerful way to shift that experience. When you're helping someone else, you naturally take the focus off your own stress. 

Studies show that people who volunteer regularly report lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Teens especially benefit from volunteering. Helping others gives you a sense of purpose. It gives you a reason to get out of the house and connect with others, whether you’re chatting with a new friend during a food drive or exchanging laughs with kids you’re mentoring.

Volunteering can also boost confidence. Every time you learn a new skill, solve a problem, or realize someone is counting on you, it adds to your sense of self-worth. Over time, you start to see yourself differently—not just as a student or a kid trying to figure things out, but as someone who can make a real difference.

And yes, volunteering actually makes you happier. That “helper’s high” people talk about? It’s real. Doing good triggers feel-good chemicals in the brain, like dopamine and oxytocin, that boost your mood and make you feel more connected and optimistic.

Getting started is easier than you think. Websites such as Volunteer Match and Do Something list opportunities by age and interest, including virtual options. You can also ask around at places you already know: your school, local nonprofits, shelters, or even the library.

If you’re not sure where to begin, try asking yourself: What do I care about? What kind of change do I want to see? Who needs support right now, and how can I help? Follow those answers, and you’ll find your way.

Whatever you choose, make it yours. Invest your time and energy into something that feels right for you. Keep a journal or log of your experiences, not just what you did, but how it felt. You might use those reflections later in a college essay, or simply as a reminder of the impact you’ve made.

The most meaningful service comes from doing what matters to you. Don’t just do it to build a resume—do it because it makes a real difference. And in the process, you might discover new strengths, new friendships, and a new way of seeing the world.

Focus on Majors: Pre Law (not a major!!)

If you’re thinking about becoming a lawyer, you might assume there’s a specific “pre-law” major you’re supposed to choose. But here’s something most students don’t realize until later: there’s no such thing as a pre-law major. In fact, law schools welcome students from nearly every academic background—from political science to physics. What matters most isn’t what you major in, but whether you’ve developed core skills such as critical thinking, persuasive writing, strong reading comprehension, and logical reasoning.

That said, you can begin preparing for a legal career while you’re still in high school.  You can get a taste of what studying subjects like economics, philosophy, or political science feels like before you commit to a major later on. Joining your school's mock trial or debate team is a great way to develop research and persuasive public speaking skills.

When selecting a college major, choose a field you genuinely enjoy and in which you are confident you will excel academically. Law school is academically rigorous, and getting good grades in college matters more than the specific subject you study. For example, if you're intrigued by finance law, a major in economics could be a great fit. If you’re more interested in the psychological aspects of the courtroom, such as jury behavior or bias, then psychology might make more sense. Or maybe you're drawn to reading, writing, and culture. English majors do extremely well in law school, too, thanks to their writing and analytical training.

Some of the most commonly chosen pre-law majors include political science, history, philosophy, economics, English, and psychology. But that doesn’t mean you can’t major in biology, computer science, the arts, or even sport management and still end up thriving in law school. For example, students interested in intellectual property or environmental law might benefit from a science or tech background.

When researching colleges, ask about the availability of dedicated pre-law advisors, LSAT preparation resources, mock trial or debate teams, and opportunities for legal internships or externships. Find out if the school tracks law school acceptance rates for their graduates and whether they offer workshops on law school applications, personal statement writing, and interview preparation. When it’s time to choose a college, don’t panic about picking the “right” school; instead, focus on where you will find academic, social, and emotional success. There are many paths to law school and a legal career. For perspective, check out Harvard Law School's list of diverse feeder schools.

Just like undergraduate institutions, law schools vary in admission rates and costs. If law school is indeed your trajectory, remember that high LSAT scores, undergraduate grades/rigor, and letters of recommendation are essential. A strong application will also include a compelling personal statement along with a resume that includes internships and volunteer activities related to the field of law. 

Students who prefer small classes and close mentorship might want to consider liberal arts colleges. Amherst College, The University of Rochester, Pomona College, and Dickinson College consistently send graduates to law schools. Claremont McKenna College even offers a government major with a legal studies sequence, Occidental College has a unique “Lawyering for Social Justice” program, and Gettysburg College has the Eisenhower Institute.

Other colleges that offer excellent outcomes for future law students include: Fordham University’s Pre-Law Institute, which has a summer program providing an introduction to foundational U.S. law subjects, legal writing, and research skills; American University in Washington, DC which has a well-established path into public policy and law; The University of Richmond, which features a PPEL track (Philosophy, Politics, Economics, and Law); and Loyola Marymount in Los Angeles, which is especially good for students interested in entertainment or immigration law.

No matter where you go to college or what major you choose, the goal is to build key skills and explore the field of law in ways that feel meaningful to you. That might include joining the debate team, volunteering with a legal aid organization, or interning at a courthouse. Along the way, you’ll want to develop strong relationships with professors, particularly in writing-intensive or analytical classes, since their recommendation letters will carry serious weight when you apply to law school.

Thinking about law now gives you a head start, but there’s no need to lock anything in yet. Focus on building strong academic habits, asking good questions, and staying curious. Law will still be there if you decide to pursue it, and you’ll be all the more ready when the time comes.