Is 97 an A+?

Is 97 an A+? Here’s How Grading Works

Yes, a 97 is typically considered an A+ in most U.S. schools and universities. On a standard grading scale, an A+ usually covers scores from 97 to 100, making it the highest possible grade a student can achieve. This distinction reflects exceptional performance and mastery of the subject matter.

Grading scales can vary slightly between institutions, but a common breakdown looks like this: an A (93–96), A- (90–92), B+ (87–89), and so on down the line. While some schools may not differentiate between A and A+ and simply award an A for anything above 93, others use the 97–100 range to recognize truly outstanding work.

It’s worth noting that while the difference between a 96 and a 97 might seem minor, in competitive academic environments, every point counts—especially when calculating GPA or applying to colleges. Many high schools and colleges use weighted scales where an A+ can contribute more toward a 4.0 (or higher) GPA, particularly in honors or advanced placement courses.

Still, grades aren’t everything. A 97 reflects strong effort and understanding, but learning is about more than numbers. Whether it's acing a test or improving from a C to a B, growth matters just as much as the final score.

So yes—97 is not just an A, it's an A+, a mark of excellence. But remember, even a perfect score is just one moment in a much longer journey of learning.