Harvard Proposes Cap on A Grades to Address Grade Inflation

University aims to make transcripts more meaningful for employers and grad schools

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Harvard University is proposing to limit the number of top grades awarded to undergraduate students, responding to concerns that grade inflation may weaken the meaning of a degree from the school. The plan would cap A grades at 20% of undergraduates, with some flexibility, across courses and departments if approved by faculty ahead of the 2026-2027 school year.

Why it matters

The move comes amid broader concerns across U.S. higher education that rising grades have made it harder for employers and graduate schools to assess student performance. Harvard is aiming to make its transcripts a more accurate and nuanced reflection of student achievement.

The details

The cap wouldn't include A-minus marks, and the plan would also allow four extra A grades in smaller courses. The proposal cites concerns from employers and admissions officials who have said that 'Harvard transcripts no longer provide them useful information about the performance and distinction of Harvard students,' forcing some to rely on informal networks that give an advantage to students with stronger connections.

  • The plan would be implemented ahead of the 2026-2027 school year if approved by faculty.
  • In November 2024, Harvard announced a committee to study grading policies and possible alternatives.
  • At the start of the current semester, the share of 'flat A's' had fallen to 53%, from 60% previously.

The players

Amanda Claybaugh

Dean of undergraduate education at Harvard University.

Harvard University

An Ivy League research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Ultimately, it will benefit students if employers and graduate admissions committees know that the grades on a Harvard transcript are a more accurate and nuanced reflection of student performance in their courses.”

— Amanda Claybaugh, Dean of undergraduate education (Harvard University)

What’s next

The proposal on the grade cap will need to be approved by Harvard's faculty before being implemented for the 2026-2027 school year.

The takeaway

Harvard's proposal to limit A grades aims to address concerns about grade inflation and make its transcripts more meaningful for employers and graduate schools, reflecting a broader trend in higher education to ensure grades accurately represent student performance.