How to Calculate Your GPA
Your Grade Point Average (GPA) is a standard way of measuring your academic achievement in the U.S. and many other countries. It is calculated on a 4.0 scale, where an A represents 4.0, a B represents 3.0, and so on.
The GPA Formula
To calculate your GPA manually, you divide the total number of grade points earned by the total number of credit hours attempted.
GPA = Total Grade Points / Total Credit Hours Attempted
For example, if you earned an 'A' (4.0 points) in a 3-credit course, you have earned 12 total grade points for that class. Repeat this across all courses, sum the grade points, and divide by the sum of your credits.
Standard 4.0 Grading Scale
Most colleges and universities utilize a standard 4.0 scale. Our calculator defaults to the following values:
| Letter Grade | GPA Value | Percentage equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| A / A+ | 4.0 | 93% - 100% |
| 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% |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do pass/fail classes affect GPA?
- In most institutions, courses taken as Pass/Fail (or Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory) do not factor into your GPA. However, in some schools, a failing grade could harm your GPA while a passing grade will not improve it. Always check your university's explicit transcript policy.
- What is a good GPA in college?
- A "good" GPA largely depends on your major and your career field's expectations. Generally, anything above a 3.0 (B average) is considered acceptable, while a 3.5 or higher often qualifies for honors and is preferred for competitive internships or graduate school applications.