How is GPA calculated?

GPA is calculated by: 1) Converting each letter grade to its grade point value (A=4.0, B=3.0, etc.). 2) Multiplying each grade point by the credit hours for that course. 3) Adding all quality points. 4) Dividing by total credit hours. GPA = Total Quality Points / Total Credit Hours.

What GPA do I need for Dean's List or honors?

Requirements vary by school. Common thresholds: Dean's List: 3.5+ GPA. Cum Laude: 3.5-3.69. Magna Cum Laude: 3.7-3.89. Summa Cum Laude: 3.9-4.0. Check your institution's specific requirements.

What is the difference between weighted and unweighted GPA?

Unweighted GPA uses a standard 4.0 scale regardless of course difficulty. Weighted GPA gives extra points for honors/AP/IB courses (often up to 5.0). Most colleges consider both. This calculator uses the standard unweighted 4.0 scale.

GPA Calculator

Calculate your semester GPA on a 4.0 scale. Add courses and see results instantly.

COURSE NAME GRADE CREDITS

Semester GPA

0.00

Total Credits

Quality Points

Grade	Points	Percent
A+	4.0	97-100%
A	4.0	93-96%
A-	3.7	90-92%
B+	3.3	87-89%
B	3.0	83-86%
B-	2.7	80-82%
C+	2.3	77-79%
C	2.0	73-76%
C-	1.7	70-72%
D+	1.3	67-69%
D	1.0	60-66%
F	0.0	Below 60%

Grade

Points

Percent

A+

4.0

97-100%

4.0

93-96%

A-

3.7

90-92%

B+

3.3

87-89%

3.0

83-86%

B-

2.7

80-82%

C+

2.3

77-79%

2.0

73-76%

C-

1.7

70-72%

D+

1.3

67-69%

1.0

60-66%

0.0

Below 60%

How to Calculate Your GPA

Add your courses — enter the course name, letter grade, and credit hours for each class.

View semester GPA — your GPA is calculated automatically as you add and modify courses.

Calculate cumulative GPA — enter your existing GPA and credits to see how this semester affects your overall GPA.

Understanding GPA

GPA (Grade Point Average) is a standardized way to measure academic performance on a 4.0 scale. It's used by colleges, graduate programs, employers, and scholarship committees to evaluate academic achievement.

The GPA Formula

GPA = Total Quality Points / Total Credit Hours
Quality Points = Grade Points × Credit Hours

For example, if you take a 3-credit course and earn a B (3.0): Quality Points = 3.0 × 3 = 9.0. If you take another 4-credit course and earn an A (4.0): Quality Points = 4.0 × 4 = 16.0. Total: (9.0 + 16.0) / (3 + 4) = 25.0 / 7 = 3.57 GPA.

GPA Thresholds That Matter

2.0: Minimum to remain in good academic standing at most schools

3.0: Many scholarships and programs require at least a 3.0

3.5: Typically qualifies for Dean's List and Cum Laude honors

3.7: Magna Cum Laude at many institutions

3.9: Summa Cum Laude at many institutions

Tips to Improve Your GPA

Higher-credit courses have more impact on your GPA — focus extra effort on these. Retaking failed courses (if your school allows grade replacement) can significantly boost your GPA. Taking lighter course loads can help you earn better grades in each class. Many schools offer GPA forgiveness or academic renewal programs for students who struggled early.

Frequently Asked Questions

GPA = Total Quality Points / Total Credit Hours. Quality Points for each course = Grade Points x Credit Hours. For example, an A (4.0) in a 3-credit course = 12.0 quality points.

Requirements vary by school. Common thresholds: Dean's List: 3.5+. Cum Laude: 3.5-3.69. Magna Cum Laude: 3.7-3.89. Summa Cum Laude: 3.9-4.0. Check your school's specific requirements.

Unweighted uses a standard 4.0 scale. Weighted adds extra points for honors/AP/IB courses (up to 5.0). Most colleges consider both. This calculator uses the unweighted 4.0 scale.

Yes, at most schools. An A- is 3.7 instead of 4.0, and a B+ is 3.3 instead of 3.0. This can make a significant difference over time. Some schools don't use plus/minus grading.

Cumulative GPA combines all semesters: (Previous Quality Points + New Quality Points) / (Previous Credits + New Credits). Use the cumulative section below the semester calculator.