GPA calculator
Calculate your cumulative GPA from letter grades and credit hours. Supports the standard 4.0 scale.
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How GPA is calculated
Your GPA (Grade Point Average) is calculated by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of credit hours attempted. Each letter grade corresponds to a numeric value on the 4.0 scale:
- A = 4.0, A- = 3.7
- B+ = 3.3, B = 3.0, B- = 2.7
- C+ = 2.3, C = 2.0, C- = 1.7
- D+ = 1.3, D = 1.0, F = 0.0
For each course, multiply the grade points by the number of credits. Then add up all the grade points and divide by the total credits.
The 4.0 scale explained
The 4.0 scale is the most widely used grading system in US high schools and colleges. A 4.0 represents a perfect "A" average, while a 0.0 is a failing grade. Most students aim for a 3.0 (B average) or higher, and competitive colleges often look for a 3.5 or above.
Some schools use a slightly modified scale, but the standard 4.0 scale above is the common baseline used for college admissions and scholarship consideration.
Weighted vs unweighted GPA
Unweighted GPA uses the standard 4.0 scale where an A is always worth 4.0 regardless of course difficulty. This is what this calculator computes.
Weighted GPA gives extra points for advanced courses such as AP, IB or honours classes — an A in an AP course might be worth 5.0 instead of 4.0. Weighted GPAs can exceed 4.0 and are used to reflect the rigour of a student's course load.
Check with your school's guidance office to confirm which system they use and how they weight advanced courses.
Frequently asked questions
How is GPA calculated?
Multiply each course's grade points by its credits, add all grade points together, then divide by the total number of credits. The result is your cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale.
What is a good GPA?
A 3.0 (B average) is generally considered good. A 3.5 or above is excellent and competitive for most colleges. For graduate school admissions, 3.5+ is often expected.
What's the difference between weighted and unweighted GPA?
Unweighted GPA uses a 4.0 scale for all courses regardless of difficulty. Weighted GPA adds extra points for AP, IB or honours classes, so it can go above 4.0. This calculator computes unweighted GPA.