S.C. Students to Move to 10-Point Grading Scale

Superintendent Molly Spearman says the state's move to a 10-point grading scale next school year allows South Carolina students to fairly compete for college entry and scholarships.

The State Board of Education approved the change unanimously Tuesday for high school, beginning Aug. 1. Supporters say it removes the unfair advantage that students outside South Carolina have when applying to colleges.

Currently, an A in South Carolina is 93 to 100. But most states, including neighboring Georgia and North Carolina, use the 10-point scale. That means, for example, that a South Carolina student who earns a 90 receives a 3.0 toward his grade-point average, while a Georgia student earns a 4.0.

Middle schools aren't required to make the change but are encouraged to, since many eighth graders take high school courses.