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Grading system 

 

The grading system at Woodbridge High School is pretty straightforward since the school uses the 4-point method, which I explain further down. It is also essential to note that each Class's grading can differ. Still, at the beginning of the year, you will receive a syllabus that explains the basis of how that Class works and how your teacher will grade every assignment, and it is important to read it thoroughly.   

 

The significance of the Great Point Average

 

The GPA system is used in schools all around the states, including ours. This method averages your grades throughout High School, adding them up from a 0 to 4.0 (or greater if weighted). To clarify, I made a chart that converts the four-point method to others. 

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How to improve your GPA

Besides focusing on or improving note-taking skills, the AP and Honors classes are a great way to boost your GPA. When earning a C or above, your points in the specific class increase by one, which can significantly change your grades. 

 

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GPA Chart.png

Types of GPA 

The Grade Point Average has three categories: the Class GPA, the semester GPA, and finally, the cumulative GPA.

The Class GPA focuses on the student's performance in specific courses, which adds up to the semester GPA, which looks at your performance in a broader way. As the name describes, it sums up your grades throughout the semester. The cumulative GPA takes into account your grades throughout high school!  

Extracurriculars

If you are looking for a community or are interested in being an outstanding candidate when applying to college, extracurriculars can help you achieve that goal. Schools in the US usually offer multiple different kinds of extracurriculars, from performing arts to academic clubs and sports. Woodbridge is a school known for its outstanding performance in performing arts, although it also offers excellent sports. Being a member of any of these activities can show colleges that the student can show passion by sticking to a team/community for some time. It shows growth beyond academic achievements.

Here are some pieces of information specific to Woodbridge High School:


Tests

What is the SAT and ACT?

Note: Some out-of-state schools are requiring applicants to submit their test scores. 

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The purpose of the SAT is to measure if high school students are ready for college and the level of skill that a student obtains in different subjects. Some colleges might even allow students to compensate for their low GPA with a high SAT score! The benefits of taking the SAT or the ACT are clear. Many scholarships require SAT or ACT scores, so taking these tests can provide you with financial aid. 

 

The difference between the SAT and the ACT

Note that all universities (requiring test scores) accept scores from either the ACT or SAT, so the difference is the content of each test and which one fits you most. 

  • The SAT is now digital, and the test adapts to your accuracy in answering questions. Your answers will determine the difficulty of questions in the next module.  

  • The ACT is still a paper test, which means the test will present you with the same questions regardless of your performance. 

  • The SAT has more questions than the ACT, making it last longer. 

    • The SAT takes 3 hours and 15 minutes, while the ACT takes 2 hours and 55 minutes.

  • The ACT contains a science section, which differs from the SAT since it does not have a science section.

You are NOT required to submit your scores for UC or CSU applications.

College requirements

Applying to colleges can be stressful, but you can make it easier by understanding what you should do to be a competitive applicant. You must first notice whether you plan to stay in or move out of state since each college has its requirements list. Requirements for college are essential things to care about if that is the path you plan to take after high school. As most may know, fall applications (meaning you would start college the following fall) are usually due in November, although schools may vary. It is essential to research colleges in the United States to understand what would be the best fit for you. If you plan on staying in California, there are a lot of colleges that are worth taking a look at! But they all come with requirements. California University States (23 campuses) require a 2.5 GPA or higher to apply (for residents), and they also require specific courses, referred to as the "a-g courses." Universities of California (8 campuses) require a 3.0 GPA or higher to apply (for residents); here are some crucial requirements that are available on the University of California website:  https://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/admission-requirements/freshman-requirements/   

 

CaliforniaColleges.edu is a helpful tool for finding your best college fit based on your grades, courses, and preferences. You usually register for it in your Junior year with the help of a counselor, but if you're not a Junior yet, I encourage you to talk to your counselor about it and see if you can access it.   

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