Weighted GPA Calculator

A weighted GPA assigns additional grade points to harder courses. Honors adds 0.5 points and AP or IB adds 1.0 point — an A in AP equals 5.0 vs 4.0 in a regular class. This allows GPAs to exceed 4.0, reflecting both grades and course difficulty.

AP and IB add 1.0: A becomes 5.0, B becomes 4.0, C becomes 3.0. Honors adds 0.5: A becomes 4.5, B becomes 3.5. These bonuses apply regardless of AP exam score. Unweighted GPA stays on the standard 4.0 scale.

Most selective colleges recalculate all applicants' GPAs using their own method, typically unweighted 4.0 scale, for fair comparison. Colleges also review transcripts directly to assess course rigor. The UC system uses 10th and 11th grade a-g courses with a cap on weighted honors bonuses.

Yes — with A+ grades in all AP courses using a 4.3 base, a student could reach 5.3. Most schools cap weighted GPA at 5.0 and limit how many weighted courses count. Always check your district's specific weighting policy and any caps that apply.

The 4.0 scale is the standard unweighted scale — maximum 4.0 from an A in any course. The 5.0 scale is weighted — AP and IB courses allow a maximum of 5.0. Most US colleges use 4.0 internally. High schools report both on transcripts.

Generally yes — a B in AP (4.0 weighted) equals an A in regular (4.0 weighted) on the weighted scale. Admissions officers prefer a B in AP over an A in regular coursework. However, a C or D in AP hurts both GPAs — choose challenging courses based on genuine interest and preparation.