What high school grades matter the most for college admissions?

In the midst of this college application process, and honestly, it's a little intimidating. I'm wondering, do colleges look at all four years of high school grades, or do they place more emphasis on junior and senior year?

When colleges review applications, all four years of high school grades are considered. Grades are an indicator of your level of academic achievement and how well you handle academic rigor.

However, different components of your high school academic experience may carry different weights. Your cumulative grade point average (GPA), which includes grades from all four years, certainly matters. But your junior year grades often receive particular attention. This is because your junior year typically includes more advanced, upper-level courses which can provide an indication of how you might perform in college-level courses.

Beyond just looking at the grades, colleges also consider the rigor of your courses. Did you challenge yourself with honors, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses? Showing readiness for academic rigor is a positive sign to colleges that you're prepared for their courses.

In contrast, your senior year grades might not be available when colleges make their decisions if you're applying Early Action or Early Decision since those applications are generally due in November or early January. However, they become more relevant for Regular Decision applications. Also, it's important to know that colleges may request to see your mid-year and final senior year grades, therefore, it's crucial not to let senioritis take hold.

Remember that while grades are important, college admissions are not solely based on this factor. Your extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, personal statement, supplemental essays, subject test scores, among others, will also be evaluated in the admissions process to give a holistic view of you as an applicant. Also, if you had a rough start in high school, but your grades improved over time, that upward trend can demonstrate resilience and a capacity to improve, which colleges will appreciate.