Weighted GPA vs Unweighted GPA
**Unweighted GPA** treats all classes on a standard 4.0 scale. **Weighted GPA** adds points for honors/AP—can exceed 4.0—reflecting course rigor on your transcript.
Step by step
1. Know your school scale
Districts use different weights—use your handbook.
2. Colleges may recalc
Admissions often rebuild GPA with their rules.
3. Report honestly
Submit what the school reports; explain rigor in application.
Weighted vs unweighted
Rigor matters as much as the number—course selection tells the story.
- Unweighted: Comparable across schools on 4.0 scale.
- Weighted: Rewards AP/IB; not standardized nationally.
Use our calculators
Common mistakes
- Assuming 4.5 weighted equals 4.0 unweighted competitiveness
FAQ
Which do scholarships use?
Varies—read each program; many use unweighted + class rank.