Is it better to have a high GPA or take challenging courses?

I've heard that colleges like to see students challenging themselves, but I'm worried that taking harder classes might lower my GPA. Is it better to have a high GPA or take challenging courses? Thanks for any insight!

It's great that you're considering this question, as it shows you're thinking about how to best prepare for college admissions. The answer isn't a clear-cut one, as colleges consider both your GPA and the rigor of your courses when evaluating applications. However, I can provide some guidance on striking a balance between the two. Many college admissions officers value students who take challenging courses, as it demonstrates a willingness to push yourself and a strong work ethic. That being said, it's important not to overload yourself with difficult courses to the point where it significantly impacts your GPA. A good rule of thumb is to take a challenging course load while maintaining a strong GPA. This might mean taking a mix of honors, AP, or IB classes, alongside regular classes. If you find that your GPA is suffering due to the difficulty of your classes, it's advisable to scale back a bit and focus on maintaining a strong GPA. Ultimately, the key is to find a balance between challenging yourself in your coursework and maintaining a solid GPA, as both aspects are important in the college admissions process.