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<p>So again, it depends on overall GPA vs major-specific. I would think schools like Caltech and Mudd (with a large core that is math/science intensive in fields that one isn’t as comfortable with) might result in a lower overall GPA, but little change in major GPA if one concentrates on those classes. </p>
<p>I think a school like Mudd is reputed to be harder to earn a good GPA at than many top schools. That said, doing very well against bright people at Harvard in math or physics isn’t going to be any cakewalk! I’ve heard some disciplines at Mudd might be more crushing than others for GPA. </p>
<p>I think your son will be fine at Mudd and I’d guess he could graduate with one of those 3.7+ GPAs (but I’m not a student, I only know a few students) - he has the academic maturity, and that combined with tons of effort will help a lot. The only potential problem would be if he minds working on difficult classes in a variety of areas, and prefers to concentrate all his efforts in a single few things.</p>