Question 1

How is GPA calculated?

Accepted Answer

GPA is calculated by multiplying each course's grade points by its credit hours, summing those values, then dividing by total credit hours. For example, an A (4.0) in a 3-credit course earns 12 grade points.

Question 2

What is the difference between weighted and unweighted GPA?

Accepted Answer

Unweighted GPA uses a standard 4.0 scale for all courses. Weighted GPA adds bonus points for AP, IB, or Honors courses — typically +0.5 for Honors and +1.0 for AP/IB — allowing GPAs above 4.0.

Question 3

How many grade points is each letter grade worth?

Accepted Answer

On a standard 4.0 scale: A = 4.0, B = 3.0, C = 2.0, D = 1.0, F = 0.0. With +/- grades: A- = 3.7, B+ = 3.3, B- = 2.7, and so on.

Question 4

What are credit hours?

Accepted Answer

Credit hours represent the weight of a course. A 4-credit course impacts your GPA more than a 3-credit course. Most colleges use 3 or 4 credits per course.

Question 5

Does this calculator work for both college and high school?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The calculator works for any grading system that uses a 4.0 scale. Use the weighted option for high school AP/IB courses and the standard option for most college courses.