Question 1

How is GPA calculated in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Canadian universities typically use a 4.0 scale similar to the US system. Letter grades are converted to grade points: A+ and 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, and F = 0.0. Your GPA is calculated by multiplying each grade's point value by the course credits, summing these products, and dividing by total credits. Some universities like McGill use different scales, so always verify your institution's specific policy.

Question 2

What GPA do I need for Canadian law school?

Accepted Answer

Canadian law school admissions combine LSAT scores and GPA. For top schools like U of T, Osgoode, and UBC, competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.7+ and LSAT scores in the 160s or higher. Mid-tier schools generally look for 3.3–3.6 GPA with strong LSAT scores. Some schools calculate your best two or three years (B2/B3) rather than cumulative GPA, which can work in your favour if you improved over time.

Question 3

What GPA do I need for Canadian medical school?

Accepted Answer

Canadian medical schools are extremely competitive. Most successful applicants have a GPA of 3.7 or higher. Ontario schools use a weighted GPA system (wGPA) that may drop lowest credits. Western Ontario requires a minimum 3.7 wGPA. UBC uses an Academic Average with specific course requirements. McMaster uses cGPA without weighting. Research each school's specific calculation method and minimum requirements carefully.

Question 4

How does the percentage-to-GPA conversion work?

Accepted Answer

Many Canadian universities use percentage grades. A common conversion is: 90–100% = A+ (4.0), 85–89% = A (4.0), 80–84% = A- (3.7), 77–79% = B+ (3.3), 73–76% = B (3.0), 70–72% = B- (2.7), 67–69% = C+ (2.3), 63–66% = C (2.0), 60–62% = C- (1.7), 57–59% = D+ (1.3), 53–56% = D (1.0), 50–52% = D- (0.7), and below 50% = F (0.0). However, scales vary by institution—UBC, McGill, and Ontario universities may use slightly different ranges.

Question 5

What is a good GPA in Canada?

Accepted Answer

GPA expectations vary by field and goals. Generally: 3.7–4.0 is excellent (Dean's List, major scholarship territory), 3.5–3.69 is very good (competitive for most graduate programs), 3.0–3.49 is good and meets most program minimums, 2.5–2.99 is average, and 2.0–2.49 is below average but passing. For competitive programs like medicine, law, or engineering grad school, aim for 3.7+. For co-op placements and general graduate studies, 3.0+ is typically sufficient.

Question 6

Do Canadian universities use the same GPA scale?

Accepted Answer

No, Canadian universities have different grading scales. Most Ontario universities use a 4.0 scale with letter grades. McGill uses a 4.0 scale but has different percentage cutoffs. UBC uses percentage-based grades with their own conversion. Some universities like Alberta use a 4.0 scale with different letter grade ranges. When applying to programs or comparing GPAs, always check the specific institution's grading policy and use their official conversion if provided.

Question 7

Can I save my GPA calculations?

Accepted Answer

This free online calculator doesn't store your data between sessions—your privacy is protected, but you'll need to re-enter your courses each time. If you want to track your GPA over time, monitor semester-by-semester progress, and see how each course affects your cumulative average, try Athenify. It's a comprehensive study tracking app that lets you log your courses, grades, and study hours across your entire academic career.

Canadian GPA Calculator

Calculate Your GPA in 3 Steps

Your GPA opens doors to opportunities

Graduate school admissions

Scholarships and awards

Co-op and internships

Professional programs

Understanding Canadian GPA Calculation

Frequently Asked Questions