<p>Ok, I have a question about GPA's in high school and their effects in college admissions, especially for ivies. I had a 4.0 freshman year, but this sophomore year, first semester, I received a B+ in AP Physics. Now, second semester, I most likely will get a B- in the same class, along with, most likely, a B+ in AP Computer Science. I understand that having just a few B's is Ok, and it is best to see an upward trend. </p>
<p>If this is the case, do they look at upward trends by semester or by year? If this is the case, I just kind of went downhill. Will my chances be hurt much? I'm working really hard now, and am hoping to get all A's Junior year and Senior year. </p>
<p>Also, is there a huge difference between a B- and a B? I have a B- in physics now, but if I take the final, I may be able to bring it to a B, but I also may bring it down to a C+. Is it worth the risk?</p>
<p>First of all, high school GPAs are relative. GPA is looked at in conjunction with your class rank and standardized test scores. Some people get a few B+s but they’re first in their class and they got a 5 on all their AP exams for those classes. That probably means their teachers are hardasses and Harvard will figure that out. So it’s meaningless to say something like “having a few Bs is good/bad/okay” because grades are one part of the picture.</p>
<p>Assuming that this a class you just didn’t do excellently in, yes upward trends are fine and not many sophomores take AP Physics to my knowledge so it’s not the end of the world. Just know that there are a ton of Harvard applicants who get As across the board so you should really aim for all As in your junior and senior years. A C+ will be very harmful to your chances; don’t worry about college admissions worry about figuring out why you anticipate getting a C+ after your final exam.</p>