How GPA Calculation Works
Every GPA calculation follows a consistent 4-step process that can be customized for different institutional needs:
Select included courses - The course selector determines which courses from a student’s transcript are included in the GPA calculation (e.g., all courses, academic courses only, or academic plus AP/IB courses)
Determine GPA formula - Choose between different GPA scales:
4-point scale: Traditional 0-4.0 GPAs
Percentage scale: 0-100 percentage-based GPA system
Specialized formula: Custom systems like Grassfield (percentage with credit bonuses) or Peachleaf (unweighted course averaging)
Configure formula - Apply specific mapping and weighting configurations:
Letter grade mapping: Convert letter grades (A, B, C, etc.) to numerical values
Percentage grade mapping: Convert percentage grades to scale points using thresholds
Course specific weightings: Add bonus points for advanced courses (AP, IB, Honors, etc.)
Calculate GPA - Process all selected courses according to the calculator's methodology