Harvard University Proposes A-Grade Cap Amid Student Backlash
Harvard could cap how many ‘A’ grades it hands out - and students are furious
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Harvard University is considering a proposal to limit A grades in undergraduate courses to 20% of class rosters to combat grade inflation, sparking outrage among students. A recent survey indicated that 94% of students oppose the plan, which aims to restore the value of top grades and enhance academic rigor.
- 01Harvard's Faculty of Arts and Sciences plans to vote on a proposal to cap A grades at 20% of each class.
- 02Approximately 94% of students oppose the proposed A-grade cap, according to a recent survey.
- 03The proposal aims to address significant grade inflation, with A grades rising from 25% in 2005-06 to 60% in the 2024-25 school year.
- 04Administrators have delayed the implementation of the proposal to fall 2027 and introduced a new grading option for flexibility.
- 05Supporters believe the cap will help employers and graduate schools better distinguish student performance.
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Harvard University is facing significant student backlash over a proposed policy that would limit the number of A grades awarded in undergraduate courses to 20% of the class roster, with additional allowances for smaller classes. This proposal, aimed at curbing grade inflation, follows a report indicating that nearly 60% of undergraduate grades were A's in the 2024-25 school year, a stark increase from 25% in the 2005-06 academic year. A survey conducted by the undergraduate student government revealed that approximately 94% of students disapprove of the cap. In response to the backlash, Dean of Undergraduate Education Amanda Claybaugh announced a delay in the rollout to fall 2027 and introduced a new grading option called
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The proposed cap could significantly alter grading standards at Harvard, affecting students' academic performance and future opportunities.
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