Petition to the University of Mississippi: Implement A+ Grades

Students at the University of Mississippi dedicate countless hours to achieving academic excellence. However, despite exceptional performance in demanding courses, Ole Miss students are currently unable to earn A+ grades on their transcripts. This policy places students at a disadvantage when competing for graduate schools, law school, scholarships, and national opportunities.

At many universities across the country, A+ grades are awarded to students who demonstrate performance above the standard A level. These grades strengthen GPA calculations and better reflect outstanding academic achievement. Ole Miss students deserve the same recognition.

The impact is especially significant for students applying to including law school. Law schools calculate GPA through the LSAC system, where A+ grades carry additional weight. As a result, students from institutions that award A+ grades gain an advantage over equally qualified Ole Miss students.

Implementing A+ grades would:

• Properly recognize exceptional academic performance
• Help Ole Miss students remain competitive nationally
• Better align the university with peer institutions

Students who exceed expectations in courses should have the opportunity to earn distinction beyond the standard A.

We urge the University of Mississippi administration and Faculty Senate to:

1. Adopt an official A+ grading designation
2. Ensure A+ grades receive appropriate GPA weighting (4.3 or 4.33)
3. Apply the grading policy consistently across departments

In 2018, the ASB Senate passed a resolution supporting A+ grades, but the policy was never implemented. 8 years later, Ole Miss students still remain at a disadvantage compared to students at peer institutions that recognize A+ achievement.

Sign this petition to support academic excellence and equal opportunity for Ole Miss students.