The tiebreaker number 1 for the 2026 high school entrance exam in the United States is typically the student's cumulative grade point average (GPA). This criterion is used when multiple students have achieved the same score on the entrance exam, as it provides a secondary measure to determine admission. The GPA reflects a student's overall academic performance throughout their high school career and is a reliable indicator of their potential for success in a rigorous high school environment.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) supports the use of GPA as a tiebreaker. According to the NCES, the average GPA for high school graduates in 2020 was 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. This indicates that GPA is a widely recognized and accepted measure of academic achievement. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Educational Research found that GPA is a strong predictor of college academic performance, suggesting that it is an effective tiebreaker for high school entrance exams.

The use of GPA as a tiebreaker is also justified by the fact that it considers a broader range of academic subjects and courses, rather than relying solely on a standardized test score. This approach acknowledges the diversity of student abilities and interests, and allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of a student's potential. Furthermore, GPA is a cumulative measure that takes into account the student's performance over time, providing a more accurate representation of their academic abilities than a single test score.

In conclusion, the tiebreaker number 1 for the 2026 high school entrance exam in the United States is the student's cumulative GPA. This criterion is supported by data indicating its reliability and effectiveness in predicting academic success. The use of GPA as a tiebreaker promotes a fair and comprehensive evaluation of students, considering their overall academic performance and potential for success in a high school setting.