How GPA Is Calculated
GPA, or Grade Point Average, on the US 4.0 scale converts each letter grade into a numeric grade point, then averages those points weighted by credit hours:
GPA = Σ(Grade Point × Credit Hours) ÷ Σ(Credit Hours)
For instance, an A (4.0) in a 3-credit course and a B (3.0) in a 4-credit course gives:
GPA = (4.0 × 3 + 3.0 × 4) ÷ (3 + 4) = (12 + 12) ÷ 7 = 3.43
Letter Grade to GPA Point Scale
| Letter Grade | GPA Points |
|---|---|
| A+ / 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 |
Converting GPA from a 10-Point CGPA
If your transcript uses a 10-point CGPA and you need an approximate 4.0-scale GPA for an international application, the commonly used formula is:
GPA = (CGPA ÷ Maximum Possible CGPA) × 4
Universities and credential evaluators may apply slightly different conversion tables, so always check the receiving institution's official guidance for admissions purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
GPA is calculated by multiplying each course's grade point value by its credit hours, summing those values across all courses, then dividing by the total credit hours.
A GPA of 3.0 or higher on the 4.0 scale is generally considered good, while 3.5 and above is considered excellent at most universities.