How to Calculate Your GPA (Step by Step)
Updated June 2026
Calculate your grade point average.
Your GPA (grade point average) sums up your academic performance in a single number on a 4.0 scale. Here's exactly how it's calculated — and how to do it in seconds.
The 4.0 grade scale
First, each letter grade converts to grade points:
| Grade | Points | Grade | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| A / A+ | 4.0 | C+ | 2.3 |
| A- | 3.7 | C | 2.0 |
| B+ | 3.3 | C- | 1.7 |
| B | 3.0 | D | 1.0 |
| B- | 2.7 | F | 0.0 |
The GPA formula
GPA is a credit-weighted average, not a simple one. A 4-credit class counts more than a 1-credit class. The formula is:
GPA = (sum of grade points × credit hours) ÷ (total credit hours)
Worked example
Say you took three classes:
- Biology — A (4.0) — 4 credits → 16.0
- English — B+ (3.3) — 3 credits → 9.9
- History — B (3.0) — 3 credits → 9.0
Add the grade points: 16.0 + 9.9 + 9.0 = 34.9. Add the credits: 4 + 3 + 3 = 10. Divide: 34.9 ÷ 10 = 3.49 GPA.
Weighted vs. unweighted GPA
An unweighted GPA caps at 4.0. A weighted GPA gives extra points for harder classes (Honors, AP, IB) — often on a 5.0 scale where an A in an AP class is worth 5.0. If your school uses weighting, add the bonus to each grade point before multiplying by credits.
Cumulative GPA
Your cumulative GPA spans every semester. To find it, run the same formula across all classes you've ever taken — not just this term. The tool below lets you add as many classes as you want.
Calculate your grade point average.
Frequently asked questions
Does GPA include credit hours?
Yes — GPA is weighted by credit hours, so classes with more credits count more toward your average.
What is a good GPA?
A 3.0 is solid, 3.5+ is strong, and 3.7+ is typically considered excellent. Many honors programs require 3.5 or higher.
How do I raise my GPA?
Higher grades in high-credit classes move your GPA the most. Retaking a failed class (where the policy replaces the grade) also helps significantly.