What makes a College 'Hard'?

When we talk about hard colleges, are we discussing the difficulty of getting admitted or the academic toughness once you're enrolled there? Also, any thoughts on if hard colleges make it challenging to maintain a high GPA? Just trying to understand what I'm getting into with these top-tier schools.

The term 'hard college' can reference both the selectivity of admissions as well as the academic rigor once you're enrolled.

In terms of admissions, a 'hard' or selective college generally has a low acceptance rate. This means only a small percentage of applicants get accepted, usually due to high academic standards (GPAs, strong curriculum or high test scores) or exceptional extracurricular involvement. A 'hard' college would use the Academic Index to evaluate the strength of a student’s grades, class rank, and test scores.

Speaking about the academic rigor, 'hard' colleges generally have high expectations for their students. This might include demanding coursework, high-level class discussions, or ambitious research opportunities. Although this can be challenging, many students at these schools thrive in this environment, as it pushes them to reach their full potential.

Generally, these rigorous environments can make it more challenging to maintain a high GPA. Grading policies vary across institutions, and some top-tier schools might have grade inflation or deflation. For instance, it's well-documented that Ivy League schools historically had grade inflation (meaning higher distribution of A grades), but some elite schools like Princeton and UChicago are known for grade deflation (having stricter grading, resulting in fewer high grades).

Remember, every student’s journey is unique. Some people flourish in high-pressure environments and some prefer a more balanced approach to education. Ultimately, finding your ideal college entails more than just considering the level of competition or rigor; it also factors in the school's culture, available resources, extracurricular offerings, and more. Are you a fan of the close-knit community of a small liberal arts college, or do you see yourself thriving in a big university with a myriad of options? Consider these questions as you explore your college options.