Negotiating a Better Grade

         We know that GPA is a crucial factor in college admissions. As a quick summary of all of a student’s grades, we can argue that it is the most efficient insight into a student’s academic work ethic. Sometimes, its margins can be quite thin though. For example, in most grading systems an 89 would represent a B in GPA, while a 90 is an A. That one point difference there is huge while the difference between a 90 and 100 is negligible–at least in terms of GPA.

So, for a student who is looking to finish a grading period just short of the mark needed for that extra bump in GPA, it might be worthwhile for them to turn on the charm and negotiate that extra point with the teacher. Here is some advice on how to best do that.

To begin, you have to understand that you are not entitled to the better grade. If you earned an 89, well then you earned an 89. If the 90 comes along, it’s a gift you should be thankful for. Saying something along the lines of, “You have to give me an A because I don’t make Bs” or “I can’t get a B, I’ve never had one before” is one of the worst things you can say to a teacher. It’s extremely arrogant and will not be an effective strategy for you. Further, you have to be really close to the next grade to attempt this. If you earned an 86, don’t go begging for the A. Also, keep in mind that GPA is generally what matters the most and if there is not a difference in a 96 and 97, don’t split those hairs. If you have an A, don’t beg for a higher A. Lastly, this is a tactic you can only use sparingly. You can’t try this with every teacher (they do talk to each other), every grading period. Save your opportunities for the right situations.

A friendly teacher might be willing to just “give” you the better grade if you’re really close and/or ask nicely. However, you will do best here if you offer to give the teacher something in return. No, I’m not talking about bribes here. I’m talking about an offer to do extra academic work. So try something like this, “Hi. I calculated my grade and it looks like I’m going to land at an 89.1. I’m really trying to keep my GPA up so I have a shot at State U. and having an A would make a big difference in my GPA. Is there something extra I can do for you to get those three tenths of a point? You’re an experienced teacher, so you probably have some old assignment on this last unit you didn’t give us that I can do, I can have a 500 word essay on that topic we covered last month on your desk by tomorrow morning, or I’ll show you how I went back and mastered that problem on that test I screwed up.”

Basically, you’ve got to show the teacher you are willing to work and want to learn something. It’s worth a shot. The worst they can say is no. If they do, be ready to respect the teacher’s decision and work a little harder the next time.