Calculating your GPA is a systematic process that involves assigning each grade a point value, taking the weighted average based on course credit, and then summing it all up. Even though various institutions might have variations in their GPA scale, the principle remains the same.
Some online GPA calculators make this procedure much simpler. Students who understand how to calculate their GPA gain confidence in their academic status and gain awareness of growth opportunities.
Unweighted vs. Weighted GPA
The systematic way to calculate GPA is through an unweighted scale that ranges from 0 to 4.0. The weighted scale showcases the academic performance ranging between 0 to 5.0.
On the other hand, the weighted scale is a more reliable scale for the assessment of achievement of students as it takes the difficulty and the learning curve involved in each course. It is a better way to calculate GPA.
For example, an A in a challenging program is marked 5.0 for outstanding work, but an A in a simpler course is marked 4.0.
Cumulative GPA va. Overall GPA
A student's average grade points or performance analysis over a shorter period, such as a semester, quarter, or term, is covered by their cumulative GPA.
Overall GPA is the total of the average grade points or scores obtained during the academic year. It shows the entire performance curve and includes the entire course, semesters, and terms.