For many students, having the perfect GPA is the validation they need that they are smart and will have a successful future.

But, what is a good GPA? In literal terms, a 4.0 GPA is equivalent to perfection in an academia sense. This means that in order to get a 4.0 GPA, every single class you took would receive a perfect A+. Note, this means that any A- grades will not get you that coveted 4.0GPA.

As humans, none of us are perfect. And the whole point of going to school is to learn—so to be graded as perfect is a highly lofty goal for many courses! In fact, some teachers will flat out say they will not be giving out that sought after A+ in their class.

However, there are a range of strategies motivated students can take to try and nab that perfect 4.0 GPS. We’ve rounded up the top tips from others who have accomplished this feat to give you the confidence that while challenging, it can in fact be done!

1. First, you have to want it

4.0 GPAs aren’t just handed out. You have to set your mind out to get it from the get go and be persistent in achieving the perfect GPA every single day. This means that every class you participate in, every homework assignment you turn in, every test you take, every presentation you give—it all matters. So set your goal and get after it!

2. Don’t take the hardest classes

If getting the perfect GPA matters, don’t sign up to the hardest classes possible. Find a good balance of challenging courses that will look impressive for getting an A+ in and then equally find classes that won’t require you to study every waking second to get an A+. So, while many college applications want students to have a range of AP classes on their transcripts, signing up for only AP classes may make it much more challenging to keep that perfect grade.

3. Persistency pays off

When it comes to achieving that 4.0 GPA, it isn’t just something you can cram for overnight. In fact, your chances of achieving an A+ in your classes will come down to how much effort and time you put into learning the subject daily—and not just during class hours. But your goal for studying shouldn’t be because you just want to get a certain score, it should be because you genuinely want to learn. Persistence with a mix of passion really does pay off.

4. Tutors are not just for those that struggle

There is no shame in getting a tutor to help you succeed. There is a misperception at the moment that only students who are struggling in class need tutors. But, in fact, we could all benefit with some additional personalized learning sessions. Tutors are a great way to help you plan out your study schedule, quiz you and prepare you to pass your classes with a resulting A+. You don’t have to get to a 4.0 GPA all on your own, and tutors are a great way to help with this!

5. Try not to stress

We know, easier said than done. But stressing about getting the perfect GPA is a distraction and wasted energy that you could be spending on studying and kicking butt in your classes! Rather than worry about what your end GPA will be, instead put all that nervous energy to use and work extra hard to make your 4.0 GPA a well-deserved accomplishment rather than a luck of the draw!

With these five tips, you are sure to be successful in your classes and have a competitive (if not the best) GPA in your school!