Which is Better: Honors Classes, or Better Grades?

I often get similar questions from parents and students, and one of the most popular is this: “Is it better to take honors classes and get Bs, or take regular classes and get As?” The short answer is that it’s better to take honors classes and get As, but the long answer...

As in Regular Level Classes Vs. Bs in Advanced Classes

Many colleges would prefer for an applicant to have a B in an advanced class (honors, AP, IB) than an A in a “regular” class if it really came down to it. But why? Students who take honors or AP classes show that they are challenging themselves with accelerated coursework and still doing well in the class. If a student thinks they may earn a C or D in an advanced class, they should strongly consider taking the regular level course. Cs and Ds do not show mastery of a subject and, even in an advanced-level class, would not bode well on a transcript.

If your student is planning on applying to highly selective colleges, both rigorous coursework and exceptional grades are necessary. These colleges expect students to take advantage of the high-level classes available at their high school and earn mostly As in those classes.

Keep in mind that most schools will unweight each student’s GPA but will still look at their transcript and see any advanced courses they took.

If your student’s high school doesn’t offer many advanced courses, that’s okay! Colleges know the available classes at your student’s school. They will determine if your student took advantage of rigorous courses offered (if any), or if they declined to push themselves. If classes are not offered, your student won’t be penalized. Your family may consider other opportunities for your student, such as taking some classes at your local community college, but this is not necessary and simply an option if your student needs more challenging coursework.

When reviewing applications, colleges look for students who take the most rigorous, yet suitable, classes available at their high school and who can manage their course load and do well. They are aware that not every student can and wants to take every AP course offered and can perform well. Students need to determine for themselves what they can manage and what level of courses they can do well in.

Benefits of Rigorous Coursework

If your student can keep up with the material in an AP class, they may be able to earn college credit (depending on the subject). Students have the opportunity to take the AP exam at the end of the year, for a fee, and if they earn a high score, many colleges accept those scores for credit.

High grades in advanced classes can also help students earn admission to honors programs at certain colleges. The vast majority of honors programs are going to be looking at GPA, but also for those rigorous high school classes that show they can handle honors coursework at the college level.

Honors and AP classes also often provide another level of intellectual discussion, even at the high school level. These skills will undoubtedly help your student adapt to the intensity of college-level schoolwork. Many students struggle with the transition from high school to college simply due to academics, but taking advanced classes in high school can prepare them for higher expectations.

Balance is Key

Ultimately, balance is the most important piece to consider, especially if your student is one who wants to take some honors and AP classes, but not an entire schedule full of them. These students should first seek out subjects they do well in and enjoy, and enroll in the honors or AP classes in those subjects. This way, they are more likely to succeed and earn high grades in these advanced classes. Especially at the beginning of high school, students should ensure that they don’t take too much on at once. This can lead to overwhelm, burnout, and low grades. It’s important to remember that while grades are important, your student still has to have time for extracurricular activities and things they enjoy. Advanced classes are not a reason to give up all of their time!