What is Magna Cum Laude, and What are the Requirements?

Magna cum laude is one of the highest academic honors a student can receive upon graduating from a college or university. 

Latin for "with great praise," it represents a strong level of academic excellence and is typically awarded based on a student’s GPA.

Key Takeaways

• Magna cum laude means “with great praise” and is awarded for high academic performance.
• Requirements typically include a GPA of 3.7 to 3.89, depending on the institution.
• It ranks above cum laude but below summa cum laude in academic honors.

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Magna Cum Laude Meaning

The phrase magna cum laude is a Latin honorific used by colleges and universities to recognize exceptional academic achievement. It sits between cum laude (“with praise”) and summa cum laude (“with highest praise”) in the hierarchy of honors.

While the exact GPA cutoffs vary between institutions, magna cum laude is generally reserved for students who are in the top 10–15% of their graduating class.

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GPA Requirements for Magna Cum Laude

There is no universal GPA standard, but most universities follow these rough guidelines:

• Cum Laude: 3.5 – 3.69 GPA
• Magna Cum Laude: 3.7 – 3.89 GPA
• Summa Cum Laude: 3.9 – 4.0 GPA

Other factors that may be considered include class rank, honors coursework, and faculty recommendations. Some schools may also require a thesis or comprehensive final project.

How to Graduate Magna Cum Laude

To earn this distinction, students typically need to:

1. Maintain a high GPA consistently throughout their college career.
2. Complete honors-level or advanced coursework if required.
3. Avoid academic misconduct, as integrity is crucial for honors eligibility.
4. Meet specific departmental or program requirements, especially in selective majors.

It’s important to review your school’s honors policy, as some may also set quotas or consider additional academic criteria.

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Magna Cum Laude vs Summa Cum Laude vs Cum Laude

Here’s a quick comparison:

• Cum Laude – “With praise” (usually top 25–30%)
• Magna Cum Laude – “With great praise” (top 10–15%)
• Summa Cum Laude – “With highest praise” (top 1–5%)

The specific rank and GPA bands differ by institution, so always check your university’s guidelines.

FAQs

What is the difference between magna cum laude and summa cum laude?

Magna cum laude means “with great praise,” while summa cum laude means “with highest praise.” The latter is a higher distinction and generally requires a GPA near 4.0 or placement in the top 1–5% of the class.

Is magna cum laude a big deal?

Yes. Graduating magna cum laude is a significant academic achievement and often reflects a strong GPA, consistent academic effort, and a record of excellence in coursework.

Do employers care about magna cum laude?

Many employers and graduate schools view academic honors as a positive signal of discipline and intellectual ability. While it may not be a deal-breaker, it can certainly enhance your resume and open opportunities, especially early in your career.