Harvard to cap number of A-grades, despite heavy opposition from students

Harvard University faculty have voted to implement a policy capping the number of A-grades awarded in undergraduate courses, aiming to address grade inflation. Beginning in fall 2027, no more than 20% of students in a class, plus an additional four students, will be eligible to receive an A. This decision, made through a week-long electronic vote concluding Tuesday, saw just under 70% of faculty in favor. The policy is described as one of the most significant measures against grade inflation in US higher education in decades. Faculty co-chair Alisha Holland stated the vote represented a "large mandate for change."

Harvard College faculty have voted to implement a cap on A grades, limiting them to approximately 20% of all grades awarded, starting in fall 2027. This decision aims to address decades of grade inflation, which faculty argue diminishes the value of top academic achievement. A report indicated that over 60% of Harvard undergraduate grades are now As, a significant increase from 20 years prior. The new policy, using a "20 plus four" formula, will mean that for every 100 undergraduates, a maximum of 24 can receive an A. This move is intended to restore the integrity of Harvard's grading system and the value of its transcripts for students, employers, and graduate schools. The student body largely opposed the proposals, with nearly 85% disapproving in a survey.