What is a freshman index?

A freshman index is a metric used by some colleges and universities to predict a first-year student's (freshman's) academic success. It typically combines high school GPA and standardized test scores (like SAT or ACT) to create a single number representing the student's likelihood of achieving a certain GPA in college. The exact formula varies from institution to institution.

The purpose of a freshman index is primarily for:

* Predicting academic performance: Helping the university understand the academic preparedness of its incoming class.

* Resource allocation: Identifying students who might need extra support services.

* Internal tracking and research: Analyzing trends in student success and the effectiveness of various academic support programs.

It's important to note that a freshman index is just a prediction, not a guarantee. Many factors beyond high school grades and test scores influence a student's college success, including their study habits, time management skills, mental health, and overall adjustment to college life. While useful for institutional planning, students shouldn't overemphasize their freshman index score.