Grade Point Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the grade point calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Quality Points Earned
quality_points = grade_points * credit_hoursGrade Point Value
grade_val = grade_pointsCredit Hours
credits_val = credit_hoursVariables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
grade_points | Grade Point Value | 3 |
credit_hours | Credit Hours | 3 |
How It Works
How to Calculate Grade Points
Quality points represent the grade value of a course weighted by its credit hours.
Formula
Quality Points = Grade Point Value x Credit Hours
Your overall GPA equals total quality points divided by total credit hours.
Worked Example
A student earns a B (3.0) in a 3-credit hour course.
- 01Grade point value for B: 3.0
- 02Credit hours: 3
- 03Quality points = 3.0 x 3 = 9.0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are quality points?
Quality points are the product of grade value and credit hours. They are used to calculate GPA: total quality points divided by total credit hours.
Do all credits count toward GPA?
Pass/fail, audited, and some transfer credits may not count toward GPA. Only graded courses with letter grades typically generate quality points.
How do quality points differ from credit hours?
Credit hours measure time commitment. Quality points measure grade-weighted value. A 3-credit A earns 12 quality points; a 3-credit C earns 6.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Grade Point Calculator