Debate rages over U-M’s plan to hide letter grades. Here’s what to know
Summary
The University of Michigan plans to start a pilot program in fall 2027 that will hide letter grades on transcripts for some first-year students and keep those grades from affecting their GPAs. The goal is to help new students adjust to college demands and reduce stress, while still letting them see their own grades. Some students support the idea, while others worry about its effects on internships and graduate school applications.Key Facts
- The program will begin with first-year, first-semester students at the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) in fall 2027.
- Letter grades will be hidden from official transcripts and will not affect students’ GPAs, but students themselves will still see their grades.
- University officials say this change aims to encourage trying new academic challenges and to support student mental health.
- The University of Michigan’s LSA is the largest college on campus, with over half of all undergraduates enrolled.
- Some students feel the change reduces pressure while helping them adjust to college work.
- Other students worry that not showing grades might hurt chances when applying for internships or graduate schools.
- University leaders want students to build good academic habits early but provide some safety as they adjust.
- The decision has sparked debate, including criticism that it protects students too much from academic reality.
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