How GPA is Calculated
GPA (Grade Point Average) is calculated by converting each letter grade to grade points, multiplying by the course credit hours, summing all the results, then dividing by the total credit hours attempted.
For example: if you get an A (4.0) in a 3-credit course and a B (3.0) in a 4-credit course, your GPA = (4.0×3 + 3.0×4) / (3+4) = (12+12) / 7 = 3.43.
Grade Point Scale (4.0)
| Letter Grade | Grade Points | Percentage | Description |
|---|
| A+ | 4.0 | 97–100% | Outstanding |
| A | 4.0 | 93–96% | Excellent |
| A− | 3.7 | 90–92% | Excellent |
| B+ | 3.3 | 87–89% | Very Good |
| B | 3.0 | 80–86% | Good |
| B− | 2.7 | 77–79% | Good |
| C+ | 2.3 | 73–76% | Above Average |
| C | 2.0 | 70–72% | Average |
| C− | 1.7 | 67–69% | Below Average |
| D+ | 1.3 | 63–66% | Poor |
| D | 1.0 | 60–62% | Poor |
| D− | 0.7 | 57–59% | Poor |
| F | 0.0 | 0–56% | Failing |
What is a Good GPA?
- 3.5 – 4.0 — Excellent. Dean's List / Honours eligible at most universities
- 3.0 – 3.49 — Good. Competitive for most graduate programmes
- 2.5 – 2.99 — Average. Meets minimum requirements at most schools
- 2.0 – 2.49 — Below average. May be on academic probation at some schools
- Below 2.0 — Academic probation at most universities
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I raise my GPA? +
Use the Cumulative GPA tab to model different scenarios. The more credit hours you have already completed, the harder it is to move your GPA — because each new semester is a smaller fraction of your total. Getting A grades in higher-credit courses has the most impact. Retaking courses where allowed can also help if your school replaces the old grade.
Does my GPA reset each semester? +
Your semester GPA is calculated fresh each term. Your cumulative GPA is a running average of all semesters combined. Most employers and graduate schools look at your cumulative GPA, while academic awards like Dean's List may use your semester GPA.
What GPA do I need for graduate school? +
Most graduate programmes require a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B average). Top programmes at competitive universities often expect 3.5 or above. However, GPA is just one factor — research experience, test scores, references and personal statements also matter significantly.
Is a 3.0 GPA good? +
A 3.0 GPA is a solid B average and is generally considered good. It meets the minimum requirements for most graduate programmes and is competitive for many employers. A 3.5 or above is considered excellent and opens doors to more selective opportunities.
