How to Calculate Your Final Grade

Start with your current weighted grade, the course grade you want, and the final exam weight from the syllabus.

Use the weighted course grade shown in the gradebook when possible. A simple average can be wrong if the course has categories.

The current grade controls the part of the course that is already finished. The final exam only controls its own weight.

If the final is worth 20%, then the rest of the course is worth 80%.

required final = (target - current x (1 - final weight)) / final weight

A required score between 0 and 100 is mathematically reachable. A score above 100 is not reachable on the final alone unless curves or extra credit apply.

A negative score means you already have enough margin for the target, but you still need to follow the course rules for the final.

With an 88 current grade, a 90 target, and a final worth 25%, the required final score is (90 - 88 x 0.75) / 0.25 = 96.

The formula assumes no curve, dropped score, or extra credit. If your class has those rules, ask your instructor how they apply.

What if I do not know my current grade?

Use the weighted course grade shown by your teacher or learning platform.

What if the final has multiple parts?

Combine the parts only if they share one final category. Otherwise calculate each category first.

Can a curve change the result?

Yes. Curves and instructor adjustments can change the required score.

Why is my required score negative?

You already have enough margin for the target under the numbers entered.

GradeTally is an independent planning tool. Use these examples to understand the math, then check your school, instructor, transcript, or evaluator for official rules.