I spent the first two years of high school in a rigorous European school in French, and the next two years will be spent in Canada (in English). Although I am bilingual I have a harder time with French than with English and my grades during the first two years really weren’t that good compared to now. I was wondering if that would affect my college applications especially for top tier schools in the US. I am an American citizen so Financial Aid shouldn’t be a problem.
I don’t know if it changes anything but I also moved between countries and continents (because of my parents) as a child. I’ve studied in German, in English and in French.
Hope someone can help
Most schools WILL take into consideration that you’ve moved and switched languages. That said, competition for the top schools is fierce, and almost all the applicants will have outstanding grades and accomplishments. Yes, a lower GPA, for whatever reason, will likely hurt your chances at these highly selective schools that turn down more than 95% of their applicants.
I don’t understand this comment: “I am an American citizen so Financial Aid shouldn’t be a problem.” Many, many, many American citizens can’t afford the top schools because they don’t receive enough financial aid.
You will have to make more of an effort to acclimate to your new school and get leadership positions, extracurriculars, etc. which may make it harder for you compared to those who stay in one community.