Aspiring learners hoping to study in the USA must understand the country’s grading system. Your grades showcase your academic performance, which helps universities to evaluate your potential. Let’s explore the US grade system so you can make the most of your study abroad journey.
Key highlights:
- Understanding the US Grades System
- Grades and GPA – What You Need to Know
- Complete Guide to Understanding the GPA Scale in the USA
- How to Calculate Your GPA
Understanding the US Grades System
The US education grading system usually relies on two types of grading systems:
Numerical Grading System
In this system, universities assign grades based on a predetermined scale, usually ranging from 0 to 100%. The numerical percentage system reflects how well you’ve performed in your exams, assignments, or projects. For instance, scoring 85% on a test means you’ve excelled in most areas, while 60% might indicate room for improvement. The clear-cut grading scale in the US helps students understand their academic progress and provides a measurable way for institutions to assess performance.
Letter Grading System in the USA
The letter grading system is more popular in the US. It uses the letters A-D and F to evaluate academic progress.
| Letter Grade | Description | Percentage Value |
|---|---|---|
| A | Excellent | 90-100% |
| B | Very Good | 80-89% |
| C | Improvement Needed | 70-79% |
| D | Almost Failed | 60-69% |
| F | Fail | 0-59% |
Special Grades
When studying in the USA, you might encounter some unique grades that go beyond the usual A to F system. These special grades reflect specific situations in your coursework.
| Grade | Meaning |
|---|---|
| IP – In Progress | You might have pending credits or incomplete coursework. Once you complete the tasks, you will get a regular grade. |
| NC – Not Complete | You likely missed an exam or assignment. |
| W – Withdrawn | You dropped the class. |
Also Read: Ivy League Universities in the USA for Impeccable Education
Grades and GPA – What You Need to Know
Along with your grades, you will receive a GPA or Grade Point Average score. The average is calculated on a 4-point scale. This unique feature of the US grading system makes it easy for students and parents to track academic performance. The American GPA system converts your letter grades into a specific point on the GPA scale. Many universities use a plus or minus with the letter to provide a more accurate score. Most US universities follow a standardised scale.
| Letter Grade | GPA | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| A | 4.0 | 94.0-100% |
| A- | 3.67 | 90.0-93.99% |
| B+ | 3.33 | 87.0-89.99% |
| B | 3.0 | 83.0-86.99% |
| B- | 2.67 | 80.0-82.99% |
| C+ | 2.33 | 77.0-79.99% |
| C | 2.00 | 73-76% |
| C- | 1.67 | 70-72.99% |
| D+ | 1.33 | 67.0-69.99% |
| D | 1.0 | 63-66.99% |
| D- | 0.67 | 60.0-62.99% |
| F | 0.0 | 0-59% |
Complete Guide to Understanding the GPA Scale in the USA
The US GPA grading system comes in different types, each serving a specific purpose. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Class GPA
This focuses on the grades from a single class. It’s a great way to track your performance in a specific subject.
Semester GPA
This is calculated based on the grades you earn in a particular semester, giving you a snapshot of your performance during that time.
Cumulative GPA
This is the overall GPA of all the classes you’ve taken. It reflects your academic journey as a whole and is assigned at the end of the last semester.
Also Read: Top IT Universities in the USA to Strengthen Your Technological Knowledge
How to Calculate Your GPA
Before you calculate your GPA, you must know about credits or credit hours. Each subject has semester or credit hours that you must complete. Your faculty member decides on the credit hours right at the start of the course.
Here’s a quick example to help you calculate your score on the US GPA scale. Let’s assume you are pursuing a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering and studying the following subjects.
| Subject | Letter Grade | Grade Point | Credits | Cumulative GPA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermodynamics | B- | 2.7 | 10 | 27 |
| Fluid Mechanisms | A+ | 4 | 10 | 40 |
| Materials Science | B+ | 3.3 | 10 | 33 |
| Control Systems | A- | 3.7 | 14 | 51.8 |
| Finite Element Analysis | B | 3.0 | 14 | 42 |
| Total | 58 | 193.8 |
Now, here’s a simple formula to help you calculate your score as per the US GPA system.
Class GPA = Credit Hours × Grade Point
Final GPA = Cumulative GPA ÷ Total Credits
So, to calculate your final GPA, you must divide the cumulative GPA, 193.8, by the total credits, 58. Here, your final GPA will be 3.3.
Understanding the grading system used by US universities enables you to understand your score and excel during your course. Choosing to pursue your higher education in the US requires funds.
Instead of relying on your family savings, you can opt for a loan for abroad studies. At Avanse Financial Services, we provide hyper-personalised education loans that cover up to 100% of your study abroad expenses and other education-related expenses. Additionally, we have helpful tools like an EMI education loan calculator, empowering you to make wise and informed decisions about your finances.
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