Confused between weighted and unweighted GPA? Learn the key differences, how each is calculated, and use our Weighted GPA Calculator for instant results.
🎓 Introduction
If you’ve ever applied to colleges or scholarships, you’ve probably heard the terms “weighted GPA” and “unweighted GPA.” While they sound similar, they are calculated differently and can significantly impact your academic profile.
In this article, we’ll explain the difference between weighted vs unweighted GPA, show you how each is calculated, and share why schools use them. Plus, we’ll give you a free Weighted GPA Calculator to make the process simple.
📊 What is an Unweighted GPA?
An unweighted GPA is the most common way schools calculate academic performance. It uses a 0.0 to 4.0 scale where:
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A = 4.0
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B = 3.0
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C = 2.0
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D = 1.0
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F = 0.0
👉 In an unweighted system, all classes are treated equally.
That means an A in a regular class and an A in an honors/AP class are both worth 4.0.
Example:
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Student A takes regular classes → earns A = 4.0
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Student B takes AP classes → earns A = 4.0
Both students have the same GPA, even though Student B’s classes are more difficult.
🏆 What is a Weighted GPA?
A weighted GPA takes into account the difficulty of your classes, such as Honors, AP (Advanced Placement), IB (International Baccalaureate), or Dual Enrollment.
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Honors classes: Usually add +0.5 points
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AP/IB/Dual Enrollment classes: Usually add +1.0 point
This means the GPA scale can go above 4.0 — sometimes up to 5.0.
Example:
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A in a regular class = 4.0
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A in an Honors class = 4.5
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A in an AP/IB class = 5.0
So, a student challenging themselves with harder classes could end up with a 4.7 GPA, while another with the same grades in regular classes has a 4.0 GPA.
🧮 Weighted vs Unweighted GPA: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Unweighted GPA | Weighted GPA |
|---|---|---|
| Scale Range | 0.0 – 4.0 | 0.0 – 5.0 (sometimes 6.0) |
| Difficulty Factor | Not considered | Extra points for Honors/AP/IB |
| A in Regular Class | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| A in Honors Class | 4.0 | 4.5 |
| A in AP/IB Class | 4.0 | 5.0 |
| College Preference | Common but less detailed | Shows course rigor |
🔢 How to Calculate Weighted GPA
The formula is similar to the unweighted GPA but includes extra weight for advanced classes.
Weighted GPA Formula:
Weighted GPA = (Total Weighted Grade Points) ÷ (Total Credit Hours)
Example:
| Course | Grade | GPA Value | Weight Added | Final Value | Credit Hours | Grade Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English (Regular) | A | 4.0 | +0 | 4.0 | 3 | 12.0 |
| Math (Honors) | A | 4.0 | +0.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 18.0 |
| Science (AP) | B | 3.0 | +1.0 | 4.0 | 3 | 12.0 |
| History (Regular) | C | 2.0 | +0 | 2.0 | 2 | 4.0 |
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Total Grade Points = 46.0
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Total Credit Hours = 12
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Weighted GPA = 46 ÷ 12 = 3.83
👉 Notice how the student’s GPA is higher compared to unweighted because of advanced classes.
⚡ Use Our Free Weighted GPA Calculator
Don’t want to deal with formulas? Our free tool does the heavy lifting.
👉 Try it here: Weighted GPA Calculator
Just enter your grades, credit hours, and whether a class is Honors, AP, or Regular, and it will instantly give you your weighted GPA.
🎯 Why Colleges Care About Weighted GPA
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Fair comparison: It shows the difference between students who took challenging classes vs. easier ones.
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Academic rigor: Colleges want students who push themselves.
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Scholarships: Many scholarships favor students with a strong weighted GPA.
❓ FAQs
1. Which GPA do colleges use — weighted or unweighted?
Most colleges look at both. Weighted GPA helps them understand how rigorous your coursework is, but they may also recalculate it on their own scale.
2. Is a 4.5 weighted GPA good?
Yes, it’s excellent. Anything above 4.0 shows that you’ve taken advanced classes and performed well.
3. Can weighted GPA go above 5.0?
In some schools with unique scales, yes — especially if they add more weight for advanced programs.
4. Which GPA should I report on applications?
Follow the instructions of the college or scholarship. Some ask for unweighted, some for weighted, and others for both.
📌 Final Thoughts
The difference between weighted vs unweighted GPA is simple: unweighted treats all classes equally, while weighted rewards students for taking harder courses.
If you’re applying to colleges or scholarships, make sure you know both versions of your GPA. And to save time, use our Weighted GPA Calculator for accurate results.