1. What is GPA?

GPA (Grade Point Average) is a numerical representation of a student's academic performance, calculated by averaging the grades obtained in all courses. The 4.0 scale is the most common grading system used in the United States.

2. How GPA is Calculated

The calculator uses the standard GPA formula:

Where:

• \( grade\_points \) — Numerical value of the letter grade (A=4.0, A-=3.7, etc.)
• \( credits \) — Credit hours for each course
• \( total\_credits \) — Sum of all course credits

Explanation: Each course's grade points are multiplied by its credit hours, then summed and divided by total credit hours.

3. GPA Scale Importance

Details: GPA is crucial for academic standing, scholarships, graduate school admissions, and job opportunities. Most colleges consider 3.0+ as good and 3.5+ as excellent.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Select your letter grade and enter credit hours for each course. Click "Add Course" for additional courses. All values must be valid (positive credits).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between cumulative and term GPA?
A: Term GPA is for one semester/quarter, while cumulative GPA includes all coursework.

Q2: How do +/- grades affect GPA?
A: Plus grades add 0.3 and minus grades subtract 0.3 from the base letter grade (except A+ = 4.0 and F remains 0.0).

Q3: Do pass/fail courses affect GPA?
A: Typically no, they're usually not included in GPA calculations unless you fail.

Q4: How can I improve my GPA?
A: Retake courses with low grades (if allowed), focus on current courses, and consider credit/no-credit options for difficult subjects.

Q5: Do all schools use the 4.0 scale?
A: Most US schools do, but some use different scales (e.g., 5.0 for honors/AP classes or percentage-based systems).