Summa cum laude

Summa cum laude. A Latin phrase that translates to “with highest honor” and is an academic award given to students who earn their degree with the highest distinction. It’s one of three types of Latin honors that are commonly used in the United States, along with magna cum laude (“with great honor”) and cum laude (“with honor”). 

Summa cum laude is typically awarded to students who are in the top 1–5% of their class or have a GPA of 3.9–4.0. However, requirements for this honor can vary by institution and department. Some schools may not award summa cum laude, or may only award it in exceptional circumstances. 

Summa cum laude is usually given to a select few students at an institution’s graduation or honors ceremony.