“Summa cum laude” is a Latin phrase that translates to “with highest honor.” It is used by educational institutions to denote the highest level of academic distinction awarded to students upon graduation. This honor recognizes exceptional academic achievement and is typically reserved for those who have demonstrated outstanding performance throughout their studies.
In the United States, the Latin honors system commonly includes three levels:
- Cum laude: “With honor”
- Magna cum laude: “With great honor”
- Summa cum laude: “With highest honor”
The specific criteria for each level can vary by institution but often include a minimum grade point average (GPA) and other academic achievements. For example, some universities may require a GPA of 3.5–3.64 for cum laude, 3.65–3.79 for magna cum laude, and 3.8–4.0 for summa cum laude.
It’s important to note that these distinctions are not universally applied and can differ between institutions. Some schools may have additional requirements, such as completing an honors thesis or maintaining a certain class rank. Therefore, students should consult their specific institution’s guidelines to understand the criteria for earning these honors.