Does pass/fail affect GPA?

In most institutions, pass/fail courses do not factor into GPA. A pass earns credit hours but no quality points.

When should I take a class pass/fail?

Consider pass/fail for courses outside your major that might lower your GPA, or during heavy semesters.

Most schools have a deadline a few weeks into the semester to change grading mode. Check your registrar.

Determine if your grade meets the passing threshold and how many points you can afford to lose.

Your Current Score

Passing Threshold

Total Points Possible

Pass Status

Points Above/Below Passing40.0

Percentage Margin8.0 %

Pass Status vs Your Current Score

Pass/fail converts a percentage grade into a binary outcome.

Pass = Current Score >= Passing Threshold

Undergraduate: 60% (D) or 70% (C)

Graduate: 70% (C) or 80% (B)

A student has a 68% with a 60% passing threshold in a 500-point course.

Find the grade needed to pass.

Calculate your final course grade.

Convert points to percentage.