* High GPA/Academic Excellence: Many schools award medals, certificates, or other honors (like Latin Honors - Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Cum Laude) to students with the highest grade point averages. The specific criteria for these awards differ from school to school.
* Specific Achievements: Schools might present medals or awards for accomplishments in areas like athletics, arts, community service, or specific subjects (e.g., a medal for top performance in mathematics).
* National Merit Scholarships: Students who score exceptionally high on the PSAT can receive recognition, including medals, as part of the National Merit Scholarship program. This is a national, not school-specific, award.
* Military Service Awards: If a student has served in the military before graduation, they might receive recognition related to that service.
In short, there's no guaranteed medal. Excellent grades and other achievements are more likely to lead to receiving some type of academic or other recognition at graduation. You should check with your high school's guidance counselor or administration to understand what awards or honors are available at your school.