How to Calculate Your GPA
Understanding how to calculate GPA is essential for academic success.
The GPA Formula
The standard formula for GPA is:
GPA = Σ(grade points × credits) / Σ credits
Where Σ (sigma) means "sum of". Multiply each course's grade point by its credits, add them all up, then divide by total credits.
Standard 4.0 Scale
Letter grades map to grade points as follows:
| Grade | Points | Grade | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | 4.0 | C+ | 2.3 |
| A- | 3.7 | C | 2.0 |
| B+ | 3.3 | C- | 1.7 |
| B | 3.0 | D+ | 1.3 |
| B- | 2.7 | D | 1.0 |
| F | 0 |
Example Calculation
Suppose you have:
- Math (3 credits): A → 4.0 × 3 = 12.0
- English (3 credits): B+ → 3.3 × 3 = 9.9
- History (2 credits): B → 3.0 × 2 = 6.0
Total points = 12.0 + 9.9 + 6.0 = 27.9
Total credits = 3 + 3 + 2 = 8
GPA = 27.9 / 8 = 3.49
Weighted GPA (High School)
For Honors (+0.5) or AP (+1.0), add the weight to the grade point before multiplying by credits. Example: AP Math A = (4.0 + 1.0) × 3 = 15.0 points.
Mini Calculator
Try it yourself: