GPA (Grade Point Average) sounds like a single number, but it’s really a weighted average — and understanding the weighting is what makes the calculation click.
The 4.0 scale
Most US institutions convert each letter grade to a grade point: A = 4.0, A- = 3.7, B+ = 3.3, B = 3.0, B- = 2.7, C+ = 2.3, C = 2.0, C- = 1.7, D+ = 1.3, D = 1.0, F = 0.0.
Why credit hours matter
A course isn’t just averaged in as one grade — it’s weighted by its credit hours. Multiply each course’s grade point by its credit hours, add all of those up, then divide by the total credit hours. A 4-credit A is worth more toward your GPA than a 1-credit A, because it reflects a heavier course load.
Worked example
Say you took a 4-credit course with an A (4.0) and a 3-credit course with a B (3.0). Weighted points: (4 × 4.0) + (3 × 3.0) = 16 + 9 = 25. Total credits: 7. GPA = 25 ÷ 7 = 3.57.
Scale variations
Some schools use a straight scale without plus/minus grades, and some weight honours or AP courses on a 5.0 scale. Always check your own institution’s official policy for anything that affects transcripts, scholarships or admissions.
Skip the manual maths with the free GPA Calculator — add each course’s grade and credit hours for an instant result.