In plain English
It shows where one student stands compared with others in the same graduating class when academic performance is arranged from highest to lowest. This is a relative place within that class.
In context
Here, "class rank" labels the field for a student's position in the order of academic performance within the graduating class.
- Situation
- Applying for admission, scholarships, financial aid, and following decision status
- What it communicates
- labels the class standing field
Meaning limits
By itself, the term does not state how strong the academic performance is, only the student's relative place within the graduating class.
Examples
“Although both students had strong grades, Nina's class rank was 4 and Omar's was 9.”
“The registrar checked that the class rank on the transcript matched the counselor's report.”