Grade Deflation

Prep School Admissions
1

<p>I moved from a school in which I could easily pull off a 3.7+ to a school that's far more difficult--the worst part is neither rank. My GPA for Q1 is not so good (though I am certain my Q2 GPA will be fine, as I have been getting better as I acclimate myself with India), though it isn't too bad. </p>

<p>As I only have to submit my first marking period grade (S1) for boarding schools, how will they view a final GPA around 3.6 (certainly), 3.8 (quite possibly), 4.0 (depends)--especially when it entails a sharp delta between Q1 and Q2. </p>

<p>The school (well... the teachers) practice a pretty heavy grade deflation. The only weighted courses are AP/IB (and I am taking the hardest course load of anyone in my grade), yet the "normal" courses are far more difficult than the honors courses at my other school (which was supposedly very good, ranked in Newsweek, I think). </p>

<p>Beyond this, we have had to move overseas (and a very rough experience at that because we did not know "for sure" until the mid summer) which has put many restrictions. Living in a hotel (for all of Q1) has increased the commute tremendously, and I've had to wake up far earlier than I should have to. Beyond this, the very fact that I am in an overseas country--far different from my own--takes a toll on stress et al. </p>

<p>I am quite positive my recommendations will be good, as all my teachers are quite happy with me. </p>

<p>So I want to know, how will this affect me? How do I convey to the admissions committee that the school loves bad grades (anyone want to guess what the cutoff for first honors is?). </p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>Ask your advisor to provide a grade distribution report along with your transcripts.</p>

3

<p>Your GC should comment on the grade deflation anyway without you asking if it’s really that pronounced.</p>

4

<p>Well, the academic dean/advisor should comment on the move and commute issues.</p>

5

<p>K, thanks. No one knows about the impact of the move and commute issues–really. I was hoping to make those two known to the BS through me, and not the school. Thanks tho.</p>

6

<p>I would think the preps would understand; they all practice grade deflation…if you think it’s bad now, just wait.</p>