Final Grade Calculator

Find out what score you need on your final exam (or midterm) to finish the class with the grade you want.

How to use the final grade calculator

Enter your current grade in the class before the final.
Enter the grade you want to finish with.
Enter the weight of the final, which is shown in your syllabus (often 15–30%).

The table under the result shows the score you need for every letter grade, so you can see the realistic options at a glance.

Final exam grade formula

Required final score = (Goal − Current × (1 − w)) ÷ w where w is the final weight as a decimal (25% = 0.25)

Worked example

You have an 84% and want a 90%. The final is worth 25%. Required score = (90 − 84 × 0.75) ÷ 0.25 = (90 − 63) ÷ 0.25 = 108%. That is out of reach without extra credit, but an 87% (B+) needs (87 − 63) ÷ 0.25 = 96%.

Using it for a midterm or any exam

The same formula works for any single assessment. Enter the midterm or project weight instead of the final weight. For classes with several categories still to come, add the upcoming weights together and treat them as one "final".

What if I need more than 100%?

Ask whether extra credit or a curve is available.
Check if your teacher drops the lowest quiz or homework score, which could raise your current grade.
Aim for the next letter grade down. The table shows exactly what each one needs.

Frequently asked questions

How do I calculate what I need on my final?

Subtract your current grade times the share of the course that is already done from your goal, then divide by the final's weight. In symbols: (goal − current × (1 − w)) ÷ w.

What if my final is worth 50%?

Enter 50 as the weight. With a 50% final, the exam has as much effect as everything else combined, so your required score can change a lot.

Can I fail the final and still pass the class?

Use the "If you score 0%" row. If that number is still at or above your passing mark, you would pass even with a zero, although most teachers expect you to sit the exam.

Does this work for midterms?

Yes. Enter the midterm weight instead of the final weight, and your current grade before the midterm.

Why does it say I need more than 100%?

Your goal is higher than what the remaining weight can deliver. Even a perfect score would not lift your grade that far.