Everyday Life Tool

GPA Calculator

Calculate your Semester GPA.

Σ The Formula

GPA = Σ (Grade Points × Credits) / Σ Credits

Real World Examples

Semester GPA
3 courses: A (4.0) × 3 credits, B+ (3.3) × 4 credits, A- (3.7) × 3 credits = (12 + 13.2 + 11.1) / 10 = 3.63 GPA
Simple Average
2 courses: A (4.0) × 3 credits, B (3.0) × 3 credits = (12 + 9) / 6 = 3.5 GPA
Mixed Grades
4 courses: A (4.0) × 3cr, B+ (3.3) × 3cr, B (3.0) × 4cr, C+ (2.3) × 2cr = 3.28 GPA
Honor Roll
All A's: 5 courses × 3 credits each = 4.0 GPA

# About This Calculator

Grade Point Average (GPA) is a standardized way of measuring academic achievement in the United States and many other countries. It converts letter grades to numerical values on a scale (typically 4.0), then calculates a weighted average based on credit hours.

GPA is crucial for college admissions, scholarship eligibility, academic standing, honor roll qualification, and graduate school applications. Most colleges use a 4.0 scale where A=4.0, B=3.0, C=2.0, D=1.0, and F=0.0, with plus/minus variations adding or subtracting 0.3.

The calculation multiplies each course's grade points by its credit hours, sums these products, then divides by total credit hours. This weighting ensures that a 4-credit course impacts your GPA more than a 1-credit course, reflecting the actual workload and importance.

This calculator uses the standard 4.0 scale and handles semester GPA calculations. Whether you're planning your course load, checking academic standing, or calculating scholarship eligibility, this tool provides accurate GPA calculations with clear breakdowns.

How To Use

  1. Add courses.
  2. Select letter grade and credit hours.
  3. Click Calculate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between weighted and unweighted GPA?+

Unweighted GPA uses a 4.0 scale where A=4.0 regardless of course difficulty. Weighted GPA gives extra points for honors/AP/IB courses (often 5.0 for an A in AP). This calculator uses unweighted GPA. Check with your school for their specific weighting policy.

How do colleges view GPA vs test scores?+

Most colleges consider GPA more important than standardized test scores because it reflects sustained performance over years, not a single test day. A strong GPA (3.5+) demonstrates consistent academic ability and work ethic.

Can I improve my GPA significantly in one semester?+

It depends on your current GPA and credit hours. Early in college (fewer credits), one semester can change GPA substantially. Later (more credits), the impact is smaller. For example, raising a 2.5 to 3.0 is easier with 30 credits than 90 credits.

What GPA do I need for scholarships or honors?+

Requirements vary: Dean's List typically needs 3.5+, cum laude honors around 3.5-3.7, magna cum laude 3.7-3.9, summa cum laude 3.9+. Merit scholarships often require 3.0-3.5 minimum. Check your specific institution's requirements.

How do pass/fail courses affect GPA?+

Pass/fail courses typically don't affect GPA - they don't count in the calculation at all. However, a 'fail' grade may count as 0.0 depending on your school's policy. Check with your registrar about P/F grading policies.

Should I calculate cumulative or semester GPA?+

Semester GPA shows current performance, while cumulative GPA includes all completed courses. This calculator computes semester GPA. For cumulative GPA, you'd need to include all previous courses and their credits.

About

Grade Point Average (GPA) is a standardized way of measuring academic achievement in the United States and many other countries. It converts letter grades to numerical values on a scale (typically 4.0), then calculates a weighted average based on credit hours.

GPA is crucial for college admissions, scholarship eligibility, academic standing, honor roll qualification, and graduate school applications. Most colleges use a 4.0 scale where A=4.0, B=3.0, C=2.0, D=1.0, and F=0.0, with plus/minus variations adding or subtracting 0.3.

The calculation multiplies each course's grade points by its credit hours, sums these products, then divides by total credit hours. This weighting ensures that a 4-credit course impacts your GPA more than a 1-credit course, reflecting the actual workload and importance.

This calculator uses the standard 4.0 scale and handles semester GPA calculations. Whether you're planning your course load, checking academic standing, or calculating scholarship eligibility, this tool provides accurate GPA calculations with clear breakdowns.

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