Short answer. Cumulative GPA = (current GPA x credits so far + new term quality points) / (credits so far + new term credits). Add each new term to see the new total.
How your total GPA changes
Your current GPA times your finished credits gives your quality points so far. Add the quality points from the new term. Then divide by all the credits, old and new.
This is why a GPA moves slowly when you have many credits. The more credits you have finished, the less one term can change the total.
Worked example
Example. Current GPA 3.20 over 60 credits. This term: 15 credits at a 3.80 average.
Old quality points: 3.20 × 60 = 192. New: 3.80 × 15 = 57. Total: 249 ÷ 75 credits = 3.32.
Questions
Can I use this to see what GPA I need next term?
Yes. Try different grades for the new courses until the total reaches the number you want. This shows what your next term must look like.
Which credits go in the first box?
Use the credits that count toward your GPA. Leave out transfer credits, pass/fail courses and withdrawals unless your school counts them.
What if I retake a course?
Many schools replace the old grade with the new one. Others average both. Ask your school, then enter the courses the way they count them.
Last checked by the StudyCount team.