Understanding the standard GPA scale

Hi there! I've been hearing a lot about GPA during the college application process. Can anyone explain the standard GPA scale and how it works? I'm kinda confused about the difference between weighted and unweighted GPAs. Thanks!

Hello! I'd be happy to help explain the GPA scale and the difference between weighted and unweighted GPAs.

The standard GPA scale ranges from 0.0 to 4.0, where 4.0 represents a perfect score. In this scale, each letter grade is assigned a numerical value:

- A (90-100%) = 4.0

- B (80-89%) = 3.0

- C (70-79%) = 2.0

- D (60-69%) = 1.0

- F (below 60%) = 0.0

To calculate your unweighted GPA, you assign each of your grades a numerical value according to the scale above, add them up, and divide by the total number of classes you've taken. Unweighted GPAs don't factor in the difficulty of the courses taken, so they're usually lower than weighted GPAs. This scale is universal across schools, so a 3.5 GPA in one school should be considered the same as a 3.5 GPA at another school.

Weighted GPAs, on the other hand, take into consideration the difficulty of the courses you've taken. Advanced courses like AP or honors classes typically have a higher value assigned to them. For example, an A in an AP class could be worth 5.0 points instead of the standard 4.0 points. Weighted GPAs can range from 0.0 to 5.0, or even higher in some schools with unique grading scales.

The main purpose of the weighted GPA is to reward students who take on more challenging courses, as it recognizes the added difficulty of those classes. When colleges review applications, they may consider both weighted and unweighted GPAs, but they will also examine your transcript to understand the rigor of the courses you've taken throughout high school.

I hope this helps clarify the GPA scale and the difference between weighted and unweighted GPAs. Good luck with your college application process!