This GPA calculator converts letter grades into a grade point average. Enter comma separated grades and, for weighted mode, matching credits. Weighted GPA = sum(points × credits) ÷ sum(credits).
Students use it mid semester to see how a hard class moves the average, or before applications to sanity check unofficial estimates. For percent style grade needs on a single exam weight, a dedicated grade tool may fit better when available on Multicalify.
How the formula works
Each letter maps to points on a four point style scale. In weighted mode those points multiply by credit hours, then divide by total credits. In unweighted mode the tool averages the point values with equal weight per course.
Worked example
Grades A, B+, A-, B with credits 3, 3, 4, 3. Points: 4.0, 3.3, 3.7, 3.0. Quality points = 12 + 9.9 + 14.8 + 9 = 45.7. Credits = 13. GPA ≈ 3.52.
| Input | Value |
|---|---|
| Grades | A, B+, A-, B |
| Credits | 3, 3, 4, 3 |
| Mode | Weighted |
| GPA | ~3.52 |
How to use the fields
- Letter grades are comma separated in course order.
- Credits match that order when mode is weighted.
- Mode switches between weighted and unweighted averages.
Weighted versus unweighted
Weighted GPA rewards heavier credit loads. A four credit A moves the average more than a one credit A. Unweighted GPA treats every listed course the same, which can help when credits are missing or equal by policy.
Planning course loads
Before dropping or adding a class, re run the list with the new grades and credits. Small credit changes can move a borderline scholarship cutoff. Keep a copy of both scenarios so you compare apples to apples.
Common mistakes
- Mismatched grade and credit list lengths
- Forgetting plus or minus letters that your school uses
- Mixing term GPA with cumulative GPA goals
- Assuming every school uses identical point maps
Semester checklist
- List only courses that count toward the GPA you care about.
- Confirm credit hours from the registration record.
- Update after each final posts.
- Separate major GPA lists if your program requires them.
Transfers and repeats
Transfer credits and repeated courses follow campus rules that this form cannot encode. Always reconcile against the registrar policy when an official number is required.
Midterm what if planning
Replace an in progress grade with a projected letter and recompute. That quick swap shows whether an A in a four credit course can lift a borderline average enough for a scholarship cutoff. Keep the old scenario so you compare honestly after finals.
If your school reports percentages, convert to the letter your syllabus uses before you enter the list. Mixing percent scores with letter maps will distort the GPA.
Major GPA versus cumulative GPA
Some programs track a major only average. Build a second grade list that includes only major courses and matching credits. Do not assume the campus portal number matches a hand list until you reconcile transferred and repeated courses.
Honors or AP weighting on high school transcripts is a separate policy layer. This calculator uses a standard college style letter map without extra bump points.
Communicating GPA on applications
When an application asks for GPA, follow their scale instructions. If they want weighted high school GPA, this tool’s unweighted or simple weighted college mode may not match. Read the form, then enter grades the way that reader expects.
Round only at the end the way your school rounds. Showing 3.515 as 3.52 is fine for planning talk, but official portals may display more digits or truncate.
Retakes and forgiveness policies
Some schools replace an earlier grade after a retake. Others average both attempts. Rebuild the list the way your catalog describes, not the way a friend remembers. A one letter change in a high credit course moves GPA more than the same letter in a one credit lab.
Keep screenshots of unofficial transcripts when you plan applications months ahead so you are not guessing old grades under stress.
Limitations
Results use a fixed letter map and do not apply honors weighting, pass or fail exclusions, or forgiveness policies. Treat the output as a planning estimate, then verify on your transcript portal.
For related unit and percent checks while you plan materials, try the unit converter or the percentage calculator.