Understanding GPA on a 4.0 scale

Hey guys, I'm a bit confused about how the GPA stuff works. How can I figure out my GPA if it's calculated on a 4.0 scale? Do I use raw scores or the letter grades?

A GPA (Grade Point Average) on a 4.0 scale often correlates with the letter grades you receive in your classes. Here's the basic breakdown of how it usually works:

- An 'A' (whether it's an A+, A, or A-) typically equals 4.0

- A 'B' (B+, B, B-) typically equals around 3.0, with a B+ being 3.3 and a B- being 2.7

- A 'C' (C+, C, C-) typically equals around 2.0, with a C+ being 2.3 and a C- being 1.7

- A 'D' is typically 1.0

- And an 'F' aligns with 0.0

You calculate your GPA by adding all your grade points together and then dividing by the total number of classes. For instance, if you had 3 As and 2 Bs, your cumulative GPA would be (4+4+4+3+3)/5 = 3.6.

However, be aware that some schools use a weighted GPA, which means that more rigorous classes, like APs or IBs, can be scored on a scale that goes up to 5.0. For instance, getting an A in an AP class at a school that uses weighted GPAs would get you a 5.0 for that class, not a 4.0. Thus, it's essential to double-check how your school calculates GPAs!

Lastly, remember that every school may calculate GPAs slightly differently, so these numbers are approximations. The most accurate way to determine your GPA is to speak with your guidance counselor or utilize a GPA calculator provided by your school.