How does the 5 point GPA scale work?

Hello folks, my school uses a 5 point GPA scale instead of the typical 4 point scale. It's a bit confusing for me, specially when it comes to comparisons. Can someone break down how this GPA scale works? Is a 4.0 on a 5 point scale bad? Thanks!

A 5 point GPA scale often means that weighted classes, such as honors, AP, or IB courses are given more weight than they would be in a typical 4.0 scale. For instance, for an unweighted GPA scale (4.0), an A in any course, whether it's standard or AP, counts as a 4.0.

But in a 5 point scale, an A in a weighted class (like AP) might be counted as a 5.0. An A in a regular class still usually counts as a 4.0. High schools often do this to reflect the increased difficulty and effort associated with taking more challenging courses.

So, when you ask if a 4.0 on a 5 point scale is bad, it depends on what courses you're taking and how rigorous your schedule is. A 4.0 could mean that you received all A's in standard courses, or it could mean you received a mix of A's and B's in AP or other weighted courses.

Do keep in mind when applying to colleges, your GPA will usually be recalculated anyway to ensure consistency among applicants. Usually, most universities use a 4.0 scale and consider the rigorousness of your course load separately from your GPA.

For example, if you got a B in an AP class (4.0 on a 5.0 scale), but all A's in regular classes (4.0 on a 4.0 scale), your weighted GPA may be higher than your unweighted GPA, but colleges would still see the B and take the rigor of your courses into account when making their admissions decisions.

So, rather than focusing solely on the number, consider the whole picture which includes the types of classes you're taking, how well you're doing in them, and how these classes suit your academic strengths and interests.