dash.How does GPA work?
- Each grade becomes pointsFor example, on a 4.0 scale an A is 4.0, a B is 3.0 and a C is 2.0.
- Points are weighted by creditsMultiply each course's points by its credits, so a 4-credit course counts more than a 1-credit lab.
- Divide by total creditsAdd it all up and divide by the credits you took. Term GPA covers one term; cumulative GPA covers all of them.
Why GPA matters, and tips to protect it
- It decides academic standing, scholarships and sometimes entry to a major or grad school
- Each school sets its own scale and rules for repeats, W's and pass/fail, so check your registrar's GPA page
- Know what each assignment and exam is worth, and put your effort where the weight is
- Drop or withdraw before the deadline if a course is going badly, after talking to an advisor
Questions students ask
Does a W count in my GPA?
Usually not. Most schools leave withdrawals out of the GPA, but check your school's policy.
What's a good college GPA?
It depends on your goals. Scholarships, majors and grad programs each set their own minimums, so look up the ones you care about.
Can I raise my GPA quickly?
Early terms have the biggest effect because fewer credits are in the average. Focus on high-credit courses and the heaviest-weighted exams.
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