The novel variable of competitiveness is explored to determine whether it has a role in differentiating high performing students from others. While the Big Five personality traits and motivation have been well-researched in relation to academic performance, the concept of competitiveness has yet to receive such attention. The competitiveness of business students (n = 226) was investigated in tandem with personality traits and motivation. Four academic performance tiers emerged from the analysis. These results unambiguously reveal that the Tier one cohort, which was comprised of a homogenous subset -- i.e. the students attaining a high distinction grade -- was statistically unique. The distinct point of differentiation is that these students were competitive as well as conscientious and intrinsically motivated. The implications of this finding open opportunities for future research, and potentially for learning and teaching strategies that acknowledge competitiveness in student learning.