Weighted vs Unweighted GPA: What’s the Difference?
By Shah Rukh, software developer · Last updated:
An unweighted GPA uses the standard 4.0 scale for every class. A weighted GPA gives extra points for harder classes like honors, AP or IB, so it can go above 4.0. Here’s how each works, with an example.
The difference at a glance
| Unweighted GPA | Weighted GPA | |
|---|---|---|
| Scale | 0 – 4.0 | Usually 0 – 5.0 |
| A in a regular class | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| A in an honors class | 4.0 | 4.5 (often +0.5) |
| A in an AP or IB class | 4.0 | 5.0 (often +1.0) |
| Shows | How good your grades are | Grades plus how hard your classes were |
Schools set their own bonuses. Some add 0.5 for AP instead of 1.0, and some don’t weight at all. Check your school’s handbook.
Worked example
| Class | Type | Grade | Unweighted | Weighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calculus | AP | A | 4.0 | 5.0 |
| English | Honors | B+ | 3.3 | 3.8 |
| Chemistry | Regular | A- | 3.7 | 3.7 |
| History | Regular | B | 3.0 | 3.0 |
| Spanish | Regular | A | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| Average | 3.60 | 3.90 | ||
Same grades, two different numbers: 3.60 unweighted and 3.90 weighted. (With equal credits for each class, you simply average the points.)
Which one do colleges look at?
Both, in different ways. Admissions officers usually see your school’s reported GPA, your transcript and a profile of your school. Many recalculate an unweighted core GPA (English, maths, science, social studies, languages) so they can compare students from different schools fairly. They then consider rigor: how many advanced classes you took compared with what your school offered.
Should you take AP and honors classes?
- Yes, if you can do well in them. A B in an AP class often impresses more than an A in an easy class, and it can raise your weighted GPA.
- Don’t overload. Several low grades in hard classes can pull your unweighted GPA down more than the weighting helps.
- Balance your year. Choose advanced classes in subjects you’re strong in or plan to study.
Work out both numbers with our GPA calculator: add your classes, then tick “Weighted” to see the difference. New to GPA maths? Start with how to calculate GPA.
Want your exact number? Use the free GPA Calculator. It takes about 30 seconds.
Frequently asked questions
Is a weighted or unweighted GPA more important?
Both matter. Many colleges look at your unweighted GPA to compare grades fairly, then look at your transcript to see how hard your classes were. Some recalculate GPA using their own rules.
Can a weighted GPA be higher than 4.0?
Yes. Because honors and AP/IB classes earn extra points, a weighted GPA can go up to about 4.5 or 5.0, depending on the school’s scale.
Is a 4.0 weighted GPA good?
It’s solid, but it depends on your unweighted GPA and course load. A 4.0 weighted with many AP classes may equal about a 3.5 unweighted.
Do colleges use weighted or unweighted GPA?
It varies. Many admissions offices recalculate an unweighted academic GPA from your transcript, while also noting how many advanced classes you took.
How do I convert weighted GPA to unweighted?
Take the bonus points away from each honors or AP/IB grade (usually 0.5 or 1.0) and average again. The GPA calculator can do both for you.
More guides
What Is a Good GPA?
GPA ranges for high school, college, grad school and jobs, and how to raise yours.
How to Calculate GPA
The formula, the 4.0 scale and worked examples for semester, cumulative and weighted GPA.