1. What is GPA?

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

2. How GPA is Calculated

The GPA is calculated using the formula:

Where:

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

Grade Scale:

• A+, 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

3. Importance of GPA

Details: GPA is crucial for college admissions, scholarship eligibility, academic standing, and sometimes employment opportunities. It provides a standardized way to compare academic performance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Add all your courses using the Add Course button
• Select the letter grade for each course
• Enter the credit hours for each course
• Click "Calculate GPA" to see your result

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's considered a good GPA?
A: Typically 3.0+ is good, 3.5+ is very good, and 3.7+ is excellent. Standards vary by institution and program.

Q2: How do I improve my GPA?
A: Focus on earning higher grades in future courses, especially those with more credit hours. Retaking courses may help if your school replaces grades.

Q3: Do all schools use the same grading scale?
A: No, some schools use different scales (e.g., 5.0 for honors/AP courses). This calculator uses the standard 4.0 scale.

Q4: How does pass/fail affect GPA?
A: Pass/fail courses typically don't affect GPA - they're either not included or count as neutral.

Q5: What's the difference between cumulative and term GPA?
A: Term GPA is for one semester/quarter, while cumulative GPA includes all coursework.