Unweighted GPA

Shurstell · Apr 28, 2011

I'm concerned about how my MOC and ALO will look at my GPA. At the end of my junior year, I'll have a 3.1 unweighted and a 3.6 weighted. I know this is way below average, but I was wondering if they took into account the difficulty of the courses (all my core classes are gifted) and the rating of the school. It wouldn't seem right that I'm recorded as having poorer academic performance than someone in less difficult classes at a more lax school. Sorry if other posts address this. I just want to know if more than just the number is considered.

jwalsh1 · Apr 28, 2011

This is why they ask for the school profile. They also look at where you stand in relation to your graduating class.

OBXmom · Apr 28, 2011

I'm sure one of the moderators will post with a more detailed answer, but from what I understand your school has a "grade" with the USAFA. Your GPA from that school will be translated into a nationally comparable GPA that will get factored into your WCS (whole candidate score).
You can't control your school's ranking, so the best you can do is to focus on your own performance in your classes. Don't be afraid to go to your teachers and explain your goals and ask for assistance, or extra opportunities to reach your goals.
Best of luck to you!

Envy01 · Apr 28, 2011

Unfortunately they will look negatively towards your GPA, but it will not be a absolute disqualifying feature of your resume. They do take in to account the difficulty of your classes, and your class rank as well. If you happened to be a higher ranking in your class then it would be good for you, and they might overlook your GPA.

You have to remember that the service academies are incredibly selective, and there are thousands of applicants. Your GPA will not KEEP you from the academy, but you need to have other excellent features you can put on your resume.

Shurstell · Apr 28, 2011

I don't think my highschool releases the class rank. And its frustrating to know that my GPA could have been a point higher if I didn't take more advanced courses.

Envy01 · Apr 28, 2011

Do you go to a private high school or something? And don't be frustrated by that, a 4.0 GPA with all easy classes is worse than a 3.1 GPA with all difficult classes. No matter where you go, you will be much better prepared for college.

Shurstell · Apr 28, 2011

I attend a public school in Louisiana. I think they might release class rank at graduation, but that doesn't really help with admission. I guess I can just explain the grades at interviews :/

flieger83 · Apr 28, 2011

Hi!

Okay...first, a few things that have been said are correct, but let me reiterate them.

The USAFA will request the school profile for your school. They "know" about schools, the type classes taken/offered, etc...etc...and they DO take that into account! So do not worry about that. If you're taking all "honors/advanced/etc" type classes, it will be to your benefit.

Now having said that, 3.6 weighted is GOOD but not GREAT. I know, that's hard even for me to type because in reality, 3.6 is really GOOD!!!

But when applying to USAFA or any SA or other "really high level" school...what is really great might not be a standout. That is why you will see here and hear elsewhere the constant comment of "whole person picture" and "weighted composite score."

EVERYTHING you do and have done since day 1 of 9th grade is in play here! The entire picture; not just grades. Okay...your 3.60...could be higher...but if you have other areas that are outstanding, they may add enough points to your WCS to overcome most other things.

DON'T focus simply on one area; rather, put your entire being into the entire package!!!

Steve
USAFA ALO
USAFA '83