<p>It's hard to answer that question without knowing more about your school. For example, in our HS kids in the top 5% do not have straight As. In most high schools that would not be the case. There are some competitive public and private schools that send the top 20% or even more to Ivys or their equivalents, and others where you might need to be at the very top.</p>
<p>But as a general rule, for a school that ranks I would say yes, unless you have a big hook you will want to be in the top 10% if not 5% of your class.</p>