2 answers
jaim
Student
Tombstone, AZ
1
Question
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Why do colleges need GPA
Why is college so competitive using gpa and sat and say why do we need these things to make it competitive and what is the main reason why colleges need it
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2 answers
Gabriel Hennsssey
Financial Aid Administrator
69
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Gabriel’s Answer
Greetings, Jaim. Full disclosure...I have worked in financial aid for over twenty years. That's my background, pleasure to meet you.
Take what I say with a grain of salt. I have technically worked at two universities. In all of my years when looking at newly admitted students, GPA and ACT/SAT scores were a major influence in being awarded a merit-based scholarship. Every university has their own standard/system. So it's kind of apples vs. oranges. If you get an offer from two schools for a $5,000 scholarship...please make sure to look at tuition and housing costs...because that $5,000 will mean more at one place versus another.
The dirty secret no one speaks of is that schools are reviewed by the government in regards to their graduation rate. There are other internal ratings going on all the time. But if you come in with a good GPA or test score, odds are you will graduate and get that degree. (WHICH YOU BETTER DO!!!)
I started college and was admitted due to having a good ACT score. Because of that, I was given free-reign, of a sort in choosing classes. I wasn't mature enough to look at all of the factors though, and left after three semesters because I "didn't know what I wanted to do". It wasn't until later that I was told you don't go to college to learn a trade (unless specific...medical, culinary, etc.)...you go to learn how to learn.
I hope that helps, a little - at least. Some universities are also VERY selective as to how many kids they admit. Everyone's path is different...but the school is hedging their bets and going with what they think would be good.
Just remember...you got this!!!
Take what I say with a grain of salt. I have technically worked at two universities. In all of my years when looking at newly admitted students, GPA and ACT/SAT scores were a major influence in being awarded a merit-based scholarship. Every university has their own standard/system. So it's kind of apples vs. oranges. If you get an offer from two schools for a $5,000 scholarship...please make sure to look at tuition and housing costs...because that $5,000 will mean more at one place versus another.
The dirty secret no one speaks of is that schools are reviewed by the government in regards to their graduation rate. There are other internal ratings going on all the time. But if you come in with a good GPA or test score, odds are you will graduate and get that degree. (WHICH YOU BETTER DO!!!)
I started college and was admitted due to having a good ACT score. Because of that, I was given free-reign, of a sort in choosing classes. I wasn't mature enough to look at all of the factors though, and left after three semesters because I "didn't know what I wanted to do". It wasn't until later that I was told you don't go to college to learn a trade (unless specific...medical, culinary, etc.)...you go to learn how to learn.
I hope that helps, a little - at least. Some universities are also VERY selective as to how many kids they admit. Everyone's path is different...but the school is hedging their bets and going with what they think would be good.
Just remember...you got this!!!
Alyssa Alejo
Supervisor Gaming Audit
51
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
Alyssa’s Answer
Your GPA shows college admissions officers your level of effort and performance in high school. It highlights your strong and weak areas. This data might be the key element that sets you apart from other college applicants.