GPA Planning Notes
Colleges typically review both weighted and unweighted GPA. Weighted GPA reflects course rigor, while unweighted GPA is the baseline academic consistency metric.
GPA Calculator
Verified by NCES + College Board Academic Standards
Course Inputs
GPA formula: `sum(grade points * credits) / sum(credits)`
GPA Results
Unweighted GPA
3.52
Weighted GPA
3.94
Weight Delta
+0.42
Grade Point Scale
| Grade | 4.0 Scale | Honors | AP/IB |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | 4.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 |
| B+ | 3.3 | 3.8 | 4.3 |
| B | 3.0 | 3.5 | 4.0 |
| C+ | 2.3 | 2.8 | 3.3 |
| C | 2.0 | 2.5 | 3.0 |
| D | 1.0 | 1.5 | 2.0 |
| F | 0.0 | 0.5 | 1.0 |
GPA FAQ
What is the difference between Weighted and Unweighted GPA?
An unweighted GPA is calculated on a 4.0 scale regardless of course difficulty. A weighted GPA adds 'bonus points' for advanced courses (Honors +0.5, AP/IB +1.0) to reflect academic rigor, often resulting in GPAs above 4.0.
How is a standard 4.0 GPA calculated?
Divide the total grade points earned by the total number of credit hours attempted. Grade points are determined by multiplying the course's numerical grade value (e.g., A=4.0) by its credit value.
Do colleges prefer weighted or unweighted GPA?
Most selective colleges look at both. They use the unweighted GPA for a baseline comparison and the weighted GPA (or a recalculated internal GPA) to assess the level of challenge the student took on.
How do credit hours affect my GPA?
Credits function as 'weights'. A 4-credit course has double the impact on your GPA compared to a 2-credit course. High grades in high-credit courses are the most effective way to raise a cumulative GPA.
What counts as a 'Passing' grade for GPA?
Generally, any grade D- (0.7) or higher is considered passing for credit. However, many major programs and graduate schools require a C or higher for specific core requirements.
How can I raise my GPA quickly?
The fastest way to raise a GPA is to perform well in high-credit courses. Additionally, retaking a course where you received a low grade (if your school allows grade replacement) can significantly boost your cumulative average.
What is a 5.0 GPA scale?
A 5.0 scale is typically used in high schools that offer weighted grades for AP (Advanced Placement) or IB (International Baccalaureate) courses, where an A in an advanced class is worth 5.0 points.
How do I calculate GPA if my school uses percentages?
You must first convert your percentages to a 4.0 scale using your school's official conversion chart. Typically, 90-100% is an A (4.0), 80-89% is a B (3.0), etc.
What is a 'Cumulative' GPA?
It is the overall GPA for your entire academic career at a specific institution, including all semesters and years completed to date.
Do 'W' (Withdrawal) grades affect my GPA?
Standard 'W' grades do not affect your GPA as no points are earned and no credits are attempted. However, a 'WF' (Withdrawal Failing) often counts as an F (0.0).
How is a Semester GPA different from a Cumulative GPA?
Semester GPA only considers the courses taken within one specific term, whereas Cumulative GPA includes every course taken throughout your entire schooling period.
How do honors courses affect weighted GPA?
Most schools add 0.5 points to the standard grade value for Honors courses. So an 'A' in an Honors class would be worth 4.5 instead of 4.0.
What grade is a 3.0 GPA?
A 3.0 GPA is equivalent to a 'B' average. It is often the minimum requirement for many scholarships and graduate program admissions.
Does failing a class ruin my GPA?
An 'F' yields 0.0 points but counts toward the total credits attempted, which can significantly lower the average. Retaking the class is the best way to mitigate this damage.
How do graduate schools look at GPA?
Graduate schools often look at 'U-Trend' (whether your GPA improved over time) and your GPA in major-specific courses, rather than just the final cumulative number.