How This Calculation Works
GPA (Grade Point Average) is calculated by multiplying each course's grade points by its credit hours, summing all the products, and dividing by total credit hours. On a 4.0 scale, A = 4.0, B = 3.0, C = 2.0, D = 1.0, F = 0.0.
Plus and minus grades add or subtract 0.3 (e.g., B+ = 3.3, B− = 2.7). A+ is capped at 4.0 at most schools.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting credit hours matter. A 4-credit A (16 quality points) helps more than a 1-credit A (4 quality points).
- Confusing semester vs cumulative GPA. Semester GPA is one term only; cumulative GPA includes all terms combined.
- Not counting retakes correctly. Most schools replace the original grade when you retake a course, but policies vary.
Worked Example
Courses: Math (A, 3 credits) + English (B+, 3 credits) + History (A−, 4 credits) + Science (B, 4 credits).
Quality points: (4.0×3) + (3.3×3) + (3.7×4) + (3.0×4) = 12 + 9.9 + 14.8 + 12 = 48.7.
Total credits: 3 + 3 + 4 + 4 = 14.
GPA: 48.7 ÷ 14 = 3.48.