How to Calculate Your GPA

Do you know your grade point average (GPA)? If you can’t answer that question off the top of your head, you aren’t paying enough attention. It seems trivial, but it actually has a huge impact when you’re applying to colleges and even jobs after college.



Let’s tackle some of the most important facts about your GPA.



What Exactly is a GPA?

In short, your GPA takes into account all your grades from your high school classes. It’s a quick summary of your academic career. In general, the higher your GPA, the better the grades you earned.



Here’s a quick guide to how your grades translate into GPA:



A+ = 4.0

B+ = 3.0

C+ = 2.0

D+ = 1.0



That means if you have all A+ grades in all of your classes, you’ll have a 4.0. Your GPA is the mean of your grades, meaning that you add the grade points together and divide them by the number of grades.



Keep in mind that some schools calculate GPA a bit differently, and some also count advanced placement or honors classes as a higher number. Ask your counselor if you aren’t sure how your school determines GPA.



Why Does it Matter?

Colleges want students with high GPAs. It’s that simple. The better your GPA is, the more likely you will get into your top-choice colleges. A higher GPA also boosts your chances of getting grants or scholarships.



Is My GPA Above Average?

A study from the U.S. Department of Education showed the average high school GPA is 3.03. That’s just above a B average.



Help! My GPA Isn’t Where I Want it to Be.

Slacking off a little the first few years of high school won’t hurt you, right? Wrong! Every bad grade counts toward your GPA, so try your hardest in every class you’re taking. There are a few ways you can increase your GPA if you’re getting worried. Talk to your teachers if you’re struggling to understand anything – getting help when you need it has a huge impact on your grade and GPA.



Will Any Colleges Accept Me With a Low GPA?

Yes! There’s a school for everyone, as some colleges don’t put as much emphasis on GPA. You can always save money by attending a community college for a year or two before transferring to a four-year university. Community colleges typically accept applicants, even if their GPA is low.



You can calculate your chances of getting into your dream school or talk to your counselor about whether or not your college goals are realistic. Lastly, visit GPA Calculator to discover where you stand academically.