Your high school performance is weighted heavily in the admissions process. Colleges look at:
* GPA: A high GPA demonstrates consistent academic achievement. "Standard" grades are subjective, but generally, anything below a 3.5 on a 4.0 scale is considered less competitive for top universities.
* Course Rigor: Taking challenging courses (AP, IB, honors) shows you're pushing yourself academically. A high GPA in easy classes is less impressive than a slightly lower GPA in demanding courses.
* Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT): While many colleges are test-optional or test-blind now, strong scores can still be a significant boost to your application, especially if your GPA is not exceptionally high.
* Extracurricular Activities: A strong profile beyond academics is crucial. Colleges look for evidence of leadership, commitment, and passion in extracurricular pursuits.
* Essays and Letters of Recommendation: These provide a chance to showcase your personality, experiences, and potential.
* Overall Application Strength: The holistic review process considers all aspects of your application to assess your potential as a student.
In short, while not impossible, it's much harder to get into a highly selective college with "standard" grades. You'd need an exceptionally strong application in other areas to compensate. Focusing on excelling in challenging courses, building a compelling extracurricular profile, and crafting strong essays is crucial to maximize your chances.