How to Calculate GPA
GPA is a credit-weighted average. Convert each course grade into points, multiply by credits, add the quality points, and divide by total graded credits.
- Use this guide when
- A student wants the GPA formula and a worked example before using a calculator.
- Last updated
- 2026-05-26
The basic GPA formula
Grade point average summarizes several course grades as one number. The common US version uses grade points on a 4.0 scale and weights each course by credits.
The credit weighting matters. A four-credit course affects the result more than a one-credit course with the same grade.
GPA = sum(grade points x credits) / sum(credits)
Convert grades into points
A common 4.0 scale treats A as 4.0, B as 3.0, C as 2.0, D as 1.0, and F as 0. Plus and minus values vary by school.
If your transcript uses a different mapping, use your school's values rather than a generic table.
Why your school result may differ
Schools can handle A+, repeated courses, withdrawals, pass/fail classes, and transfer credits differently.
A planning calculator helps you estimate the math, but the official transcript is the record that matters.
Practical example
A 3-credit A, a 4-credit B, a 3-credit A-, and a 2-credit B+ produce 41.7 quality points over 12 credits. The GPA is 41.7 / 12 = 3.48.
Planning note
Once you have many completed credits, one new course changes the cumulative GPA only a little. Use a cumulative GPA calculator when old credits are part of the question.
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FAQ
- Is a 3.5 GPA good?
- It is generally strong, but the meaning depends on your school, program, and goal.
- Does GPA include withdrawals?
- Usually no. Withdrawals often appear as W and do not add grade points, but school rules vary.
- How is cumulative GPA different from semester GPA?
- Semester GPA counts one term. Cumulative GPA includes all graded courses counted by the school.
- Why does my school's GPA differ from this estimate?
- Your school may use different grade points, repeat rules, or course exclusions.
Disclaimer
GradeTally is an independent planning tool. Use these examples to understand the math, then check your school, instructor, transcript, or evaluator for official rules.