# Is pursuing high GPA aligned with training AI risks research skills?

> Source: <https://forum.effectivealtruism.org/posts/wX6maSvjHMyCHAoui/is-pursuing-high-gpa-aligned-with-training-ai-risks-research>
> Published: 2026-06-14 14:15:18+00:00

Assume this is talking about majoring in Computer Science. **Do you think getting high GPA (in CS major) is highly, moderately or only slightly aligned with improving AI risks research(both conceptual and emprirical) abilities?** Some said they think a lot of college courses are not so useful[1], and getting good grades on tests requires practcing irrelevant skills and cramming stuffs(such as Brain Tomasik writing:"Drawbacks to Formal Education"[2]).

However, some also think most things taught in CS courses are valuable, rigorous training is beneficial to thinking skills(even if the knowledge in course itslef is not related to AI risks). I don't know what theory is more correct. Do you think chasing for great GPA(define it as getting top 20% GPA in a top 100 university) is itself benefial, or is it just mostly for credentials and signaling?

[1]https://forum.effectivealtruism.org/posts/hgiLaE3eL76ovcfdH/many-undergrads-should-take-light-courseloads

[2]https://briantomasik.com/drawbacks-formal-education/