How to Convert GPA Between Scales (4.0, 5.0, Percentage)

Not every school uses the same GPA scale. US colleges commonly use the 4.0 scale, but you may encounter 5.0 weighted, 10-point, percentage, or international scales (UK, India, Nigeria, etc.). When applying to US colleges — or comparing schools — you'll often need to convert GPA to a 4.0 equivalent.

This guide provides every major conversion method with formulas and worked examples.

Why GPA Conversion Matters

• US college applications often ask for GPA on a 4.0 scale.
• Scholarship and transfer applications use standardized scales.
• International students must translate their home grading system.
• Employers and grad schools compare candidates on a single scale.

1. Convert Percentage to 4.0 GPA

Use this standard table (varies slightly by school):

Percentage	4.0 GPA
97–100	4.0
93–96	3.9
90–92	3.7
87–89	3.3
83–86	3.0
80–82	2.7
77–79	2.3
73–76	2.0
70–72	1.7
60–69	1.0
Below 60	0.0

Quick formula (approximate): GPA = (Percentage − 50) ÷ 12.5, capped at 4.0.

Example: 85% → (85 − 50) ÷ 12.5 = 2.8 (table gives 3.0 — always prefer the table).

2. Convert 5.0 Weighted GPA to 4.0

Weighted 5.0 scales usually cap at 5.0 for AP/IB and 4.5 for Honors. To approximate the 4.0 equivalent:

Formula: Unweighted GPA = (Weighted GPA ÷ 5.0) × 4.0

Example: 4.5 weighted → (4.5 ÷ 5.0) × 4.0 = 3.6

⚠️ This is a rough estimate. Colleges recalculate from your transcript, not from a formula.

3. Convert 10-Point GPA to 4.0

Common in India, Iran, and some European systems.

Formula: 4.0 GPA = (10-point GPA ÷ 10) × 4

Example: 8.5 / 10 → (8.5 ÷ 10) × 4 = 3.4

However, many US colleges use WES or ECE credential evaluation for official conversion.

4. Convert UK Degree Classification

UK Classification	US GPA Equivalent
First-Class Honours (1st)	3.7 – 4.0
Upper Second (2:1)	3.3 – 3.7
Lower Second (2:2)	2.7 – 3.3
Third-Class Honours (3rd)	2.0 – 2.7

5. Convert Letter Grades to 4.0

Standard mapping (used by most US schools):

Letter	GPA
A	4.0
A−	3.7
B+	3.3
B	3.0
B−	2.7
C+	2.3
C	2.0

6. Convert 4.0 GPA Back to Percentage

Reverse the table above. Example: 3.5 GPA ≈ 90%. 3.0 GPA ≈ 85%. 2.0 GPA ≈ 75%.

Should You Convert Your GPA Yourself?

For personal reference, yes — use the formulas above. But for official college applications:

• Report your GPA as your school states it.
• Many colleges recalculate on their own scale.
• International students may need WES, ECE, or SpanTran evaluation.

Use our GPA Calculator to compute your GPA from raw grades and credits.

Common Conversion Mistakes

• Using a rough formula for official applications.
• Mixing weighted and unweighted scales.
• Ignoring credit hours in college GPA.
• Assuming every school uses the same percentage table.

FAQ

How do I convert my GPA to a 4.0 scale?

Use the letter-grade or percentage tables above. For official use, report your school's GPA or get a credential evaluation.

Is a 3.5 GPA on a 5.0 scale good?

A 3.5 on a 5.0 scale converts to about 2.8 on a 4.0 scale — below average for selective US colleges.

Is a 10-point GPA of 8.0 good?

Yes. 8.0/10 ≈ 3.2 on a 4.0 scale — solid for many US universities.

Does Harvard accept a 3.5 GPA?

Rarely. Harvard's average admitted GPA is close to 4.0 unweighted. A 3.5 would need exceptional other factors.

Can I list my GPA as 4.0 if my school uses a 5.0 scale?

No — report your GPA as your school states it. Colleges will convert it themselves.

Related Reading

• GPA 4.0 Scale Explained
• GPA System in America
• What Is ACA Weighted GPA?
• Free GPA Calculator