<p>My school started this Cum Laude chapter two or three years ago, so basically at the beginning of second senior semester the Principle tells you that you have been selected for the Cum Laude society (like top15% of the senior class). The Principle just told me about the news and I was wondering if this is something worth to write an update to the colleges that I'm applying. btw, I'm applying to some very selective schools like Columbia and MIT.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t bother. The colleges have your HS transcript and know your GPA. You don’t need to send them every little update to your life.</p>
<p>Does your HS report rank to colleges?</p>
<p>It’s probably not worth it. As others have said, they know your grades and they should be able to see your rank (unless your school does not rank).</p>
<p>And if you do decide to do any update, make sure you mention that it was the Principal who informed you. Not the principle.</p>
<p>Some schools offer $$$ to NHS and Cum Laude members. I would send it in. It is also a way to say you are still interested.</p>
<p>Columbia and MIT won’t care about top 15%. Now, if you just found out that you are top 10, out of a large class…</p>
<p>Our school doesn’t rank, should I send the update then?</p>
<p>I can’t imagine an admissions officer doing anything but shrugging her shoulders.</p>
<p>If you conducted the New York Philharmonic, or found a cure for the common cold, maybe.</p>
<p>If they don’t rank, why not? It will give the adcoms some indication of your rank.</p>
<p>Yes. Send it in. It means you are graduating with honors. Also, anything that draws a little attention – get’s your file to the top of the pile for a moment won’t hurt. It belongs under academic awards.</p>