How to Calculate Your GPA and Weighted Grades

5 min read

"What do I need on the final to get an A?" It's the classic student panic. Understanding how your grades are calculated is the first step to academic success.

How to Calculate Weighted Grades

In many classes, different assignments are worth different amounts.

  • Homework: 20%
  • Quizzes: 30%
  • Final Exam: 50%

To calculate your grade, you can't just average your scores. You have to multiply each score by its weight.

Weighted Grade Example

  • Homework:90 (0.90 × 20 = 18 pts)
  • Quiz:80 (0.80 × 30 = 24 pts)
  • Incoming Total:18 + 24 = 42 (out of 50)

The "Final Exam" Formula

To find out what you need on the final to get a specific overall grade (say, 90%), use this formula:

(Goal - CurrentPoints) / ExamWeight = Grade Needed

(90 - 42) / 0.50 = 96%

Ouch. You need a 96% on the final to get an A in the class.

Predict Your Grades

Stop stressing and start planning. Use our calculator to see exactly what scores you need to hit your target GPA.

Calculate My Grades

Calculating GPA

GPA (Grade Point Average) converts your letter grades into a number scale, usually 0.0 to 4.0.

Standard 4.0 Scale

  • A (90-100):4.0
  • B (80-89):3.0
  • C (70-79):2.0
  • D (60-69):1.0

Weighted GPA

If you take Honors or AP classes, many schools use a weighted scale (out of 5.0) to reward you for taking harder courses. In this system, an A in an AP class might be worth 5.0 points instead of 4.0.

Conclusion

Tracking your grades keeps you accountable and prevents end-of-semester surprises. Use our Grade Calculator to stay on top of your academic game.