Is a GPA of 86 enough for top colleges?

I currently have a GPA of 86 and I'm aiming for some of the top colleges. Is this GPA good enough for securing a spot, or should I be working to improve it more? How can my other activities and accomplishments compensate for it if needed?

An 86 GPA is a bit difficult to evaluate without knowing the scale used at your high school – is it out of 100, or is it a weighted GPA? If out of 100, it is approximately equivalent to a 3.2 out of 4.0 GPA. Regardless, a GPA of 86 might be on the lower end for top colleges that typically have average entering GPAs of 3.7-4.0 on a 4.0 scale. There are possible exceptions and compelling applications, but in general, it would be a good idea to work on improving your GPA if it is feasible.

To increase your chances of being considered by top colleges, it's important to have a strong academic profile and to excel in a specific area (a "spike"), showcasing a highly-developed specialty in which you have proven success. This could be through extracurricular activities, leadership roles, research, or community service, among other avenues.

To compensate for a somewhat lower GPA, focus on building an impressive list of extracurricular activities, aiming for Tier 1 and Tier 2 involvement, which demonstrates exceptional achievement or leadership at the national, state, or regional level. For example, winning prestigious awards, participating in selective internships or research programs, or being a leader in a nationally recognized organization can enhance your application.

Additionally, strong test scores (e.g., SAT or ACT) can help to balance your academic profile if the colleges you are applying to are not test-blind. A high standardized test score can also offset a lower GPA to some extent. If a college remains test-optional, you can still submit test scores to show your academic abilities. Do some research to know which institutions still require or consider them.

Lastly, your essays can play a crucial role in your application. Writing compelling, unique, and well-crafted essays can give the admissions officers insight into your character, values, and potential contributions to the college community. This is your chance to highlight your achievements, experiences, and growth to demonstrate how you will be an asset to the college.

While improving your GPA should be a priority, building a strong overall application can also help increase your chances at top colleges. Keep working hard in all aspects of your application and be prepared to research and apply to a wide range of schools, including those that match your current GPA and those where your GPA might be considered more competitive.