GPA stands for Grade Point Average. It shows your average academic performance based on course grades and credits.

GPA formula

Step 1: Turn each letter grade into grade points

Most schools use a 4.0 scale. A common example looks like this:

• A = 4.0
• B = 3.0
• C = 2.0
• D = 1.0
• F = 0.0

Step 2: Find the credit value for each course

Each class may be worth a different number of credits. Many classes are worth 1 credit, but some may be worth more.

Step 3: Multiply grade points by credits for each class

For each course, multiply the grade points by the number of credits.

Step 4: Add all grade points earned

Add the results from every course together. This gives you total grade points earned.

Step 5: Add all credits attempted

Add all class credits together. This gives you the total number of credits attempted.

Step 6: Divide total grade points by total credits

Divide total grade points earned by total credits attempted. That final number is your GPA.

Example 1

A student has the following classes:

• English: A in a 1-credit course = 4.0 × 1 = 4.0
• Math: B in a 1-credit course = 3.0 × 1 = 3.0
• Science: C in a 1-credit course = 2.0 × 1 = 2.0
• History: A in a 1-credit course = 4.0 × 1 = 4.0

Example 2

A student takes 3 classes:

• Biology: B in a 1-credit course = 3.0
• Algebra: B in a 1-credit course = 3.0
• Writing: A in a 1-credit course = 4.0

Common mistakes

• forgetting to multiply grade points by course credits
• adding letter grades instead of grade points
• using the wrong GPA scale for your school
• dividing by the number of classes instead of total credits when classes have different credit values

Use the calculator instead of doing it by hand

If you want the faster version, use the GPA Calculator on School Progress Hub. It helps you estimate your GPA quickly using credits and grade values.