How do you evaluate applicants from different grading systems?

When assessing applicants from diverse educational backgrounds, we take a holistic approach that considers the context of each grading system. Rather than applying a simple numerical conversion, we examine the structure and rigor of the school, the specific grading scale used, and any additional information that can provide insight into a student’s performance relative to their peers. This allows us to understand not just the grades themselves, but what they signify in the context of the applicant’s educational environment.

We also consider factors such as course difficulty, the level of academic challenge, and percentile rankings when available. By reviewing these elements, we aim to capture a more accurate picture of the student’s academic abilities, potential, and consistency over time. Our goal is to evaluate applicants fairly and comprehensively, recognizing achievements relative to opportunity rather than relying solely on raw scores.

This approach ensures that students from different countries or curricula are assessed equitably, giving weight to both their accomplishments and the context in which they were achieved. It helps us identify candidates who demonstrate strong academic performance, intellectual curiosity, and readiness for university-level study, regardless of the grading system they come from.