Weighted GPA Scales

Many colleges use a weighted GPA to evaluate applicants.  They take regular grades and convert them to weighted grades.  A weighted GPA scale gives additional grade points for courses that are more challenging than others, such as advanced placement (AP) and honors classes. College admissions committees usually use the following grading scales:


Traditional 4-Point GPA Scale


A: 4 points
B: 3 points
C: 2 points
D: 1 point

5-Point Weighted GPA Scale (applies to Advanced Placement and honors courses only)


A: 5 points
B: 4 points
C: 3 points
D: 2 points


Each partial grade step adjusts by 0.333.

There are other weighted grade scales used by high schools and colleges, but they are less common.  Some schools use the following scale:

Regular Scale:
A: 4 points
B: 3 points
C: 2 points
D: 1 point

Honors Classes:
A: 4.6 points
B: 3.6 points
C: 2.6 points
D: 1.6 point

Regular Scale:
A: 5 points
B: 4 points
C: 3 points
D: 2 points

When applying for college admissions or scholarships, it is critical to use the proper scale when using a weighted grade calculator.