How to calculate cumulative GPA
Here it is with your numbers:
- Quality points so far: 3.2 × 60 = 192.
- Quality points this term: 3.6 × 15 = 54.
- Add the quality points: 192 + 54 = 246.
- Add the credits: 60 + 15 = 75.
- Divide: 246 ÷ 75 = 3.28.
It means your cumulative GPA is 3.28 on a 4.0 scale. To reach 3.30 you need a 3.70 GPA this term.
Each GPA times its credits gives its quality points. Adding the points and the credits, then dividing, weights a big term more than a small one.
Source George Mason University catalog · Grading ↗
The GPA you need this term
To reach a goal, turn the formula around: (goal × all credits − quality points so far) ÷ this term’s credits. If the answer is above 4.00, the goal can’t be reached in one term; try a goal a little lower, or spread it over more terms.
FAQs
What is a cumulative GPA?
It’s your GPA across all the credits you’ve taken at your school, not just one term. Universities use it to decide good standing, probation and similar rules.
How do you calculate cumulative GPA?
Add up all your quality points and divide by all your credits. A 3.2 over 60 credits is 192 quality points, a 3.6 over 15 credits is 54, so 246 ÷ 75 gives a 3.28 cumulative GPA.
Is cumulative GPA weighted or unweighted?
Both exist. Some schools use a weighted GPA, giving courses like AP and honors higher points. This calculator uses the standard unweighted 4.0 scale, so enter the GPA your school reports.
Source College Board · How to calculate your GPA on a 4.0 scale ↗
What is a good college GPA?
The College Board says the average GPA across U.S. colleges is 3.1 (3.0 for high schools). Schools calculate GPA differently, so check with yours.