<p>I'm wondering whether choosing to change the grading rules for a class to "Pass / No Pass" would have any severe negative impact on my chances of getting accepted into colleges. I only ask because my current grade in the class I am taking is not as good as I would have hoped and I am afraid that in the end, it will hurt my GPA. Also, I've heard that it is best not to take more than three or so Pass / No Pass classes as it may look bad on your transcript. Can anybody tell me if choosing to do Pass/ No Pass is a good idea and confirm whether 3+ P / NP looks bad on a transcript?</p>
<p>PS. I have taken two Pass/ No Pass classes, though those courses did not have the option of having the normal grading rules. I am also applying as a transfer.</p>
<p>Much thanks.</p>
<p>I think that it depends on your preferences regarding the classes. The Pass/No Pass classes may enable you to explore different subjects without worrying too much about your final grade. In general though, it’s probably perceived as more preferable to take classes that offer a final letter grade.</p>
<p>This sounds very specific to your school. The high schools with which I’m familiar do not provide an option of making a course pass/fail.</p>
<p>To the extent that many students in your school anticipate poor grades and convert such courses to pass/fail this may not be an issue. Your GC should be the one answering your question.</p>
<p>^^^Since the OP says they are applying as a transfer, I’m assuming that they’re in college, not HS.</p>
<p>Neither low grades or several P/NP in core subjects are good for transfer admissions. After all, a P can only be considered as a C by adcoms even though it could represent an A or B; however it does look better than a D or F.</p>