GPA Conversion Made Easy: Turn Your Grades into Any Scale

Got a GPA and need to know what it means on a different scale? You’re not alone. Whether you’re applying abroad, switching schools, or just curious, converting grades can feel confusing. The good news? With a few quick calculations you can see exactly where you stand.

First, understand the two most common scales: the 4.0 scale used in the US and the 5.0 or 7.0 scales found in some Asian and European systems. The basic idea is simple—figure out the percentage your current GPA represents, then map that percentage onto the new scale.

Step‑by‑Step Conversion

1. Find the percentage. On a 4.0 scale, a 4.0 equals 100%, a 3.0 equals 75%, and so on. Divide your GPA by the maximum possible GPA, then multiply by 100.

2. Apply the new scale. Take that percentage and multiply it by the highest point of the target scale, then divide by 100. For example, a 3.2 on a 4.0 scale is 80% (3.2 ÷ 4.0 × 100). On a 5.0 scale, 80% becomes 4.0 (80 × 5 ÷ 100).

3. Round wisely. Most institutions round to the nearest two‑decimal place. If you end up with 3.97, call it 4.0 unless the school says otherwise.

Common Conversions at a Glance

Here are quick reference points you can keep on hand:

• 4.0 (US) → 5.0 = 5.0
• 3.5 (US) → 5.0 = 4.38
• 3.0 (US) → 5.0 = 3.75
• 2.5 (US) → 5.0 = 3.13
• 2.0 (US) → 5.0 = 2.50

If you need to go the other way—say, from a 5.0 system to a US 4.0—just reverse the math. Divide the foreign GPA by its max, multiply by 100, then apply the US scale.

Online calculators do the heavy lifting for you. Just type "GPA converter" into any search engine, pick a reputable tool, and plug in your numbers. Most calculators let you select the source and target scales, and they’ll show you the exact result instantly.

Remember, some schools use weighted GPAs that factor in honors or AP courses. Those extra points can push a 4.0 scale above 4.0, like a 4.3 weighted GPA. In that case, treat the weighted maximum (often 5.0) as your new top point before converting.

Finally, always double‑check the specific requirements of the institution you’re applying to. Some universities have their own conversion tables, especially in the UK and Canada, where they might look at your overall percentage rather than a GPA.

With these steps, you can confidently translate your grades, avoid surprises, and present your academic record in the best light no matter where you go.