The importance of 1st quarter senior grades

Applying to College
1

<p>I know theres so many topics about this... but I just have to ask again. Ive heard so many different opinions, from "they matter so much" to "they take into account its first quarter" to "i didnt even send them in"</p>

<p>I'm applying to UPenn early decision, and my first quarter grades are ... less than stellar lets say. 2 B-s, 2 Bs, and an A-. Granted these are all in AP classes, and I'm trying to adjust myself to all the new subjects (I'm one of those people that take a while to get grades up). I've had a cumulative weighted GPA of 3.98 at the end of junior year (could've done better but had personal issues in 10th grade that my dean discussed in my rec) </p>

<p>I'm just rather annoyed by the fact that 1st quarter grades could matter so much. Can 2 months really discount all I've done in 3 years??</p>

2

<p>Does Penn require that you send first qt grades when you’re applying ED? Most schools just ask for first semester grades early in the new year for RD admissions.</p>

<p>That said, every school requires final transcripts and you may be rescinded if you do not make adequate progress.</p>

3

<p>My policy is that I send first quarter grades when required by the school (very selective schools such as the Ivies do want to see them typically, and they do of course understand that the grades are unofficial). </p>

<p>Beside that, I only send schools first quarter grades if they are outstanding and will help my student’s application.</p>