More classes, or higher GPA?

Applying to College
1

<p>Hi everyone, </p>

<p>In my school, it has finally come to that time of year where we get to "decide" our next year's course load.
For me, this happens to be my Senior year. With the classes that I'm signing up for (AP Physics C, AP English Lang, AP Computer Science, AP Statistics, AP Calculus ab, AP Government), I have a shot at a perfect 5.0.. But, I have the option of also taking Ceramics, a normal course that would definitely lower my weighted GPA.</p>

<p>Although Ceramics technically does make my course load harder, even though it's just a "normal" class, because it would give me a sixth period, how would colleges view it? I mean, is a 5.0 in 6 AP classes viewed as greater than a 4.85 GPA in 6 AP classes with one normal class? </p>

<p>This is, of course, assuming that I get an A in all of my AP classes, but still.</p>

<p>I feel as if the 4.85 should be viewed as better, because it's more classes; but, the 5.0 would take the lead because it's (at least what my school refers to as) a "perfect schedule and GPA."</p>

<p>The 5.0 could greatly increase my rank, but I love Ceramics. </p>

<p>I'm applying to Cornell, UPenn, UC Berkeley, UCLA, Columbia, and other UC's, if that matters.</p>

2

<p>One thing to consider is whether you have meet the art requirement for the UC’s (I believe you must have one credit). Aside from that, the ceramics class may convey that you have diverse interests and are a well-rounded student. I personally would shoot for the 5.0; however, I would wait to see what the opinions of more experienced posters are before deciding.</p>

3

<p>Most schools discount (or at least lower the weight of) electives like Ceramics in their in-house GPA calculations… If you truly have straight As in your APs and a B in Ceramics that’s totally fine, and as kitten23 points out there are good reasons to have an art class on the schedule. </p>

<p>So the only thing that you’d have to worry about is rank. If you truly think you have a shot at valedictorian, or if 4.85 would knock you out of the top 10%, then I’d hold back. Otherwise, go for it.</p>