How is an unweighted GPA calculated in high school?

Hey guys, just trying to understand the difference between weighted and unweighted GPA. How exactly is an unweighted GPA calculated, and do colleges prefer to see this or the weighted GPA? I've got a mix of honors and regular classes.

Hey there! Happy to help clarify this for you. An unweighted GPA is calculated by assigning a standard set of points to letter grades, regardless of the class difficulty. Typically, it's out of a 4.0 scale, where an A earns 4 points, a B is 3 points, a C is 2 points, and so on. You add up the number for each class you took, then divide by the number of classes you've taken to get your unweighted GPA.

Many colleges look at both unweighted and weighted GPAs because they provide different insights. The unweighted GPA shows your overall academic performance, and provides a more standardized metric which allows for comparison to other applicants, while the weighted GPA reflects the challenge of your course load.

Do note that some schools also have their own, entirely separate way of calculating GPA. For example, they might only include your grades in core subjects like English, science, social studies, math, and foreign language. Using their own method gives them a data point that reflects what they prioritize in applicants.

In your case, with a mix of honors and regular classes, colleges will primarily look at your unweighted GPA to gauge the consistency of your academic performance, but your weighted GPA will also be noted for the academic risks you've taken with more rigorous courses. Keep it up!