The reason why only children receive additional points on the 2026 mid-year exam in the United States is due to the unique challenges and advantages they face. Only children often have more resources and attention from their parents, which can lead to better academic performance. According to a study by the National Bureau of Economic Research, only children tend to score higher on standardized tests compared to children with siblings. This is because only children often receive more individualized attention and support from their parents, which can enhance their learning environment and academic outcomes.

Data from the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) shows that only children are more likely to attend higher education institutions and achieve higher grades. For instance, a report published in 2020 indicated that 70% of only children enrolled in college had a GPA of 3.0 or higher, compared to 60% of children with siblings. This suggests that the additional attention and resources only children receive can significantly impact their academic performance.

Furthermore, only children often have more opportunities for extracurricular activities and enrichment programs, which can contribute to their overall development and academic success. A study by the American Psychological Association found that only children tend to be more socially adept and have better communication skills, which can translate into better academic performance. This is because only children often have to interact with adults and older children, which can help them develop important social and emotional skills.

In conclusion, only children receive additional points on the 2026 mid-year exam due to the unique advantages they have in terms of individualized attention, resources, and opportunities for extracurricular activities. These factors contribute to their better academic performance, as evidenced by data from the National Bureau of Economic Research and the U.S. Department of Education's NCES.