To calculate GPA from a percentage, you’ll need to convert the percentage into a grade point value based on a specific scale. Different institutions may use different scales, but for the purpose of this explanation, we will consider a typical 4-point scale.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to calculating GPA from a percentage:
- Determine the grading scale: Find out the scale used by your institution to convert grades to GPA. The most common scale assigns 4 points for an A, 3 points for a B, 2 points for a C, 1 point for a D, and 0 points for an F. It’s important to note that grading scales can vary, so make sure to verify the specific scale used by your institution.
- Convert the percentage to a grade point: Using the grading scale, convert the percentage earned in a specific course to its equivalent grade point. For example, if the scale is 4 points and you scored 85%, you would need to determine the corresponding grade point value. It’s advisable to refer to your institution’s guidelines or consult with your academic advisor to obtain the exact conversion table.
- Calculate the weighted grade points: If your institution uses credit hours or course weights, multiply the grade point value obtained in step 2 by the credit hours of the course. This will give you the weighted grade points for that particular course. Repeat this step for all your courses.
- Calculate the total weighted grade points: Add up all the weighted grade points obtained in step 3 to calculate the total weighted grade points for all courses.
- Calculate the total credit hours: Determine the total number of credit hours you have completed across all your courses.
- Calculate the GPA: Divide the total weighted grade points obtained in step 4 by the total credit hours obtained in step 5. The result will be your GPA.
For example, let’s say you have completed three courses with the following grades and credit hours:
Course 1: 85% (3 credit hours) Course 2: 92% (4 credit hours) Course 3: 78% (2 credit hours)
Using the grading scale and conversion table provided by your institution, you determine that 85% corresponds to a grade point of 3.0, 92% corresponds to a grade point of 3.7, and 78% corresponds to a grade point of 2.3.
Next, multiply each grade point by the respective credit hours:
Course 1: 3.0 x 3 = 9.0 Course 2: 3.7 x 4 = 14.8 Course 3: 2.3 x 2 = 4.6
The total weighted grade points would be 28.4 (9.0 + 14.8 + 4.6). If the total credit hours are 9, then divide 28.4 by 9 to obtain a GPA of approximately 3.16.
Remember to adjust the calculation based on the specific grading scale and credit hour system used by your institution. It’s always advisable to consult with your academic advisor or refer to your institution’s guidelines for precise instructions on calculating GPA from a percentage.
Check out College GPA Calculator to calculate your GPA.
