I WILL GIVE BRAINLIEST

Which is an acceptable way to punctuate the following sentence?

While eighth-grade academics can be difficult high school is a noticeable step up.

A.While eighth-grade academics can be difficult; high school is a noticeable step up.

B.While eighth-grade academics can be difficult, high school is a noticeable step up.

C.While eighth-grade academics can be difficult. High school is a noticeable step up.

D.The sentence is correct as is.