Target GPA Calculator
Enter your current GPA history and your goal to see what you need to average this semester.
Trying to pull up your GPA to keep a scholarship, get into a competitive major, or graduate with honors? The Target GPA Calculator helps you determine exactly what Grade Point Average you must achieve this semester to hit your overall cumulative goal.
Why is it so hard to raise my GPA?
If you are a junior or senior in college, you might notice that getting straight A's barely moves your cumulative GPA. This is because GPA is essentially a weighted average. The more credit hours you have already completed, the heavier the "anchor" holding your GPA in place.
If you have 90 credits completed at a 2.5 GPA, earning a 4.0 across just 15 credits this semester will only raise your cumulative GPA to a 2.71. That's why it is critical to use a Target GPA calculator to set realistic expectations before the semester begins.
How to use this tool
- Current Cumulative GPA: Your overall GPA right now (before this semester's grades are finalized).
- Total Credits Earned So Far: The total number of credit hours you have completed that count toward your GPA. (Do not include Pass/Fail credits or classes you are currently taking).
- Target Cumulative GPA: The overall GPA you want to have after this semester.
- Credits Taking This Semester: The number of credit hours you are currently enrolled in that will be graded on a 4.0 scale.
Frequently asked questions
What does it mean if my required GPA is over 4.0?
If the calculator tells you that you need a GPA higher than 4.0 (like a 4.6), it is mathematically impossible to reach your target cumulative GPA in just one semester, because the maximum grade you can earn in standard classes is an A (4.0). You will need to take additional semesters to dilute your older, lower grades with new 'A's.
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Final Grade Calculator
Figure out exactly what you need to score on your final exam to pass your class.