Grades Are Important for College

  As the semester gets close to the end and midterms come in January, it is important to remember that grades are the most important component of college applications.  With many students taking the ACT on December 14, the test score becomes the focus of attention.  However, the ACT score is just one component of a college application. 
  Focusing on school work is critical during junior year.  This is the final year of grades that colleges will see on the application.  (While some will ask for grades from first semester of senior year, those will come much later.)       
  Colleges like to see a match between courses taken, grades and ACT scores.  A great test score with mediocre grades makes an admissions officer wonder why a student didn't work harder in school.
  December and winter break make for a very hectic holiday period.  It is important for students and their families to remember that academics should still be a priority.  Midterms come soon after Winter Break.