What Is GPA?
GPA (Grade Point Average) summarizes academic performance on a numeric scale — commonly 4.0 in the United States. Each course contributes grade points × credit hours; GPA is the weighted average.
GPA = Total grade points ÷ Total credit hours
A might map to 4.0, B to 3.0, etc. — exact tables vary by school.
Cumulative vs Semester GPA
| Type | Scope |
|---|---|
| Semester GPA | One term only |
| Cumulative GPA | All courses in the program |
Major GPA sometimes includes only courses in your major — check graduate school requirements.
Weighted vs Unweighted
Unweighted caps at 4.0 — honors/AP treated same as regular.
Weighted scales may go above 4.0 for harder courses — colleges often recalculate to their own system for admissions.
Don't compare raw GPAs across high schools without context.
Pass/Fail and Withdrawals
P/F courses may not affect GPA — or may count as pass credits only. W withdrawals usually don't hurt GPA but may look bad in patterns.
Incomplete grades resolve later — can swing GPA when finalized.
How to Use This GPA Calculator
Add courses, credits, grades, and select your scale (4.0, 5.0, 10.0). See semester and cumulative GPA — use for planning, not official transcripts (get those from the registrar).