Question 1

How is GPA calculated?

Accepted Answer

GPA (Grade Point Average) is calculated using a weighted average formula. Each letter grade is converted to grade points (A = 4.0, B = 3.0, C = 2.0, D = 1.0, F = 0.0), then multiplied by the course's credit hours. These values are summed and divided by total credits attempted. For example, if you earn an A (4.0) in a 3-credit course and a B (3.0) in a 4-credit course, your GPA would be: (4.0 × 3 + 3.0 × 4) ÷ 7 = 3.43. This weighted approach ensures that courses with more credits have a proportionally larger impact on your overall GPA.

Question 2

What's the difference between weighted and unweighted GPA?

Accepted Answer

Unweighted GPA treats all courses equally on the standard 4.0 scale, regardless of difficulty or credit hours. Weighted GPA, on the other hand, accounts for course rigor—AP, IB, and honors classes often receive extra points (e.g., an A in AP might count as 5.0 instead of 4.0). At the college level, "weighted" typically refers to credit-hour weighting, where a 4-credit course influences your GPA twice as much as a 2-credit course. Most universities use credit-weighted GPAs, while high schools may use either system. Our calculator uses credit-hour weighting, which is the standard for college and university GPA calculations.

Question 3

What GPA do I need for grad school, law school, or med school?

Accepted Answer

GPA requirements vary significantly by program and institution. For top-tier graduate programs, a GPA of 3.5 or higher is typically competitive. Law school admissions (LSAT + GPA) generally expect 3.5+ for T14 schools, though the 25th–75th percentile ranges vary widely. Medical schools are highly competitive, with most successful applicants holding a 3.7+ overall GPA and a strong science GPA. MBA programs at top business schools look for 3.5+, though work experience and GMAT/GRE scores also matter heavily. Remember that GPA is just one factor—test scores, research experience, personal statements, and recommendations all play crucial roles in admissions decisions.

Question 4

What is considered a good GPA in college?

Accepted Answer

GPA expectations vary by context and goals. Generally: 3.7–4.0 is excellent (Dean's List, Summa Cum Laude territory), 3.5–3.69 is very good (Magna Cum Laude range), 3.0–3.49 is good and meets most graduate program minimums, 2.5–2.99 is average, and 2.0–2.49 is below average but still passing. For competitive opportunities like scholarships, research positions, or top graduate programs, aim for 3.5+. However, context matters—a 3.3 in engineering or pre-med may be viewed more favorably than a 3.7 in less rigorous programs. Employers in fields like finance and consulting often have GPA cutoffs around 3.5, while many other industries care more about experience and skills.

Question 5

How do I convert letter grades to GPA?

Accepted Answer

The standard US conversion scale is: 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, D- = 0.7, and F = 0.0. Some institutions award 4.3 for an A+, while others cap at 4.0. In Canada, the scale is similar but some universities use percentages (e.g., 80–89% = A). UK universities use a different classification system (First, 2:1, 2:2, Third) which doesn't directly convert to GPA, though rough equivalents exist (First ≈ 4.0, 2:1 ≈ 3.3–3.7). Australian universities use HD (High Distinction), D, C, P, and F. Always check your specific institution's grading policy, as scales can vary.

Question 6

Can I raise my GPA significantly in one semester?

Accepted Answer

The impact of one semester depends heavily on how many credits you've already completed. Early in your college career, a strong semester can move your GPA substantially. For example, if you have a 2.8 GPA after 30 credits and earn a 4.0 in 15 credits, your new GPA would be about 3.2. However, after 90+ credits, even a perfect semester might only raise your GPA by 0.1–0.2 points. Use our Target GPA calculator to see exactly what grades you need in your remaining courses. Focus on courses where you can realistically excel, consider retaking failed courses if your school allows grade replacement, and don't overload yourself—sustainable improvement beats burnout.

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. You'll get beautiful visualizations of your progress and can plan ahead for future semesters.

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