How GPA is calculated
Each letter grade maps to grade points (A = 4.0 on the standard scale), multiplied by the course's credit hours to get quality points. Total quality points divided by total credits = GPA. On a weighted 5.0 scale, AP/IB courses get an extra point (A = 5.0), rewarding harder coursework.
Semester vs cumulative GPA
This calculator gives your semester GPA. For cumulative GPA across semesters, treat each past semester as one "course": enter its GPA as the grade value and its total credits. (Use a quick weighted average: sum of (GPA × credits) ÷ total credits.)
What is a good GPA?
On a 4.0 scale, 3.5+ is generally strong for college admissions and scholarships; 3.0+ keeps most doors open. Graduate programs often look for 3.5–3.7+. Context matters — course rigor, trends over time and your major all count alongside the number.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between weighted and unweighted GPA?
Unweighted caps at 4.0 regardless of course difficulty. Weighted (often 5.0) adds a bonus point for AP, IB or honors classes, so it can exceed 4.0.
How do +/- grades affect GPA?
Typically A− = 3.7, B+ = 3.3, B− = 2.7, and so on. Uncheck the +/− box if your school uses flat letter grades.
Can I calculate cumulative GPA?
Yes — add each completed semester as a course row: set credits to that semester's total and pick the grade closest to its GPA, or compute the weighted average manually.
Is a 3.5 GPA good?
Yes, on a 4.0 scale 3.5 is solidly above average and competitive for most colleges and scholarships.
Do colleges recalculate my GPA?
Often yes — many strip out non-academic electives or re-weight AP courses their own way. Your transcript GPA and their number can differ.