<p>In my readings about Columbia University on this and other sites, I am surprised to not have come across two particularly unique (at least to me) points of interest: </p>
<p>Columbia operates out of a possible 4.3 grade point scale and..
Columbia presents students a pass/fail option.</p>
<p>I find this fascinating as this could lead to obvious GPA boosts in the traditionally relatively "easier" classes such as humanities or other core classes. For a Biochemistry major for example, it would make obvious sense to strive for an A+ in humanities to possibly compensate for A- or B+ in other, more difficult classes. </p>
<p>My question: Can current students provide some insight into how this has affected course selection and work ethic, and how, if at all, it has influenced the GPA "bigger picture"? Is it impossibly hard to get that A+ from some/all professors?</p>
<p>Also, can someone shed light on the Pass/Fail option and its implications? Sorry if I come across uninformed, but I haven't had exposure to either system at my previous school..thanks!</p>
<p>The short version is that you can’t pass/fail any class that matters (core or major requirements).</p>
<p>It seems rare to impossible for anyone to be getting A+s, certainly not planning on it. In my short time on campus, it seems the consequences of this are extremely minor.</p>
<p>You don’t have to apologize for being curious.</p>
<p>It’s not actually pass-fail. It’s P/D/F, or pass, letter grade of “D”, fail, so keep in mind that you need to get at least a letter grade of “C” or better to have it not affect your GPA. They say this option only exists to promote the idea of exploring coursework outside of your comfort zone, major, etc. Though, keep the “D” part in mind when thinking about jumping into completely unfamiliar territory - like a higher level astrophysics or something.</p>
<p>Don’t let yourself be fascinated, iggs. The A+ is a rarity (I’d say that 2-3% of the undergraduate population ever gets one). Mostly because, as far as I know, most professors don’t grade on an A+ scale. </p>
<p>Shooting for A+ grades in humanities and social sciences to boost your overall GPA is a lot like trying to win the lottery to supplement your income.</p>
<p>You wont be seeing an A+ in Undergraduate Writing, or any Core class unless you exhaust all your resources. B’s and B plus’s at this school are actually VERY VERY easy to get, even for Core classes. But if you want an A, plan on spending time at the writing center, going to every single recitation session ( Optional study review sessions offered by T.A’s for lecture courses ), and constantly emailing your teacher for feedback on a paper.</p>