High School GPA Calculator

Weighted vs unweighted GPA

An unweighted GPA uses the plain 4.0 scale for every class. A weighted GPA adds extra points for harder classes, so it can go above 4.0. This calculator uses the most common weighting:

Course level	Extra points	A is worth
Regular / college prep	+0	4.0
Honors	+0.5	4.5
AP or IB	+1.0	5.0

An F earns 0 points at every level.

Worked example

English A (regular), AP Biology B+, Honors Algebra II A− and US History B (regular), each 1 credit. Unweighted: (4.0 + 3.3 + 3.7 + 3.0) ÷ 4 = 3.50. Weighted: (4.0 + 4.3 + 4.2 + 3.0) ÷ 4 = 3.875.

Which GPA do colleges use?

Colleges see the GPA on your transcript, but many also recalculate it in their own way, often using only core academic classes. They usually look at both your grades and how challenging your schedule was.

High schools set their own weighting rules. Some add 1.0 for honors, cap weighted GPA, or count only certain grades. Your school counselor can confirm how your GPA is calculated.

Frequently asked questions

Is a 3.8 weighted GPA good?

A 3.8 weighted GPA is solid, but since weighted GPAs can reach 5.0, colleges also look at your unweighted GPA and course rigor.

Can a GPA be higher than 4.0?

Yes, a weighted GPA can exceed 4.0 when you take honors, AP or IB classes. An unweighted GPA tops out at 4.0.

Do half-year classes count less?

Often, yes. Enter 0.5 credits for a semester class if your school counts it as half a credit.

Does middle school GPA count?

High school courses taken in middle school, such as Algebra I, sometimes appear on a high school transcript. Otherwise middle school grades are not part of your high school GPA.