Published Feb 22, 2026•6 min read

How to Calculate Weighted GPA

Learn how weighted GPA works, follow the step-by-step formula, and see worked examples with AP, IB, and Honors courses. Or skip the math with our free Weighted GPA Calculator.

What Is Weighted GPA?

Weighted GPA is a grading scale that gives extra grade points to students enrolled in advanced courses. While a standard unweighted GPA caps at 4.0, weighted GPA can go up to 5.0 or higher depending on the course type:

  • Regular courses: No bonus (A = 4.0)
  • Honors courses: +0.5 bonus (A = 4.5)
  • AP / IB / Dual Enrollment: +1.0 bonus (A = 5.0)

The purpose is to reward students who take on academic challenges. A B in AP is considered equivalent to an A in a Regular class because both earn 4.0 weighted points. Read more in our Weighted vs Unweighted GPA Guide.

The Weighted GPA Formula

Weighted GPA = Σ (Weighted Points × Credits) ÷ Σ (Credits)

Weighted Points = Base Grade Points + Course Type Bonus

The calculation has two parts: first, determine the weighted grade points for each course (base GPA + bonus), then calculate the weighted average using credit hours.

5-Step Process

1

List Your Courses, Grades, Credits & Types

Write down each course with its letter grade, credit hours, and whether it's Regular, Honors, AP, or IB. Pull this from your transcript or report card.

2

Assign Base GPA Points

Convert each letter grade to its standard GPA value: A = 4.0, A− = 3.7, B+ = 3.3, B = 3.0, B− = 2.7, C+ = 2.3, C = 2.0, D = 1.0, F = 0.0. Use our 4.0 Scale Calculator for reference.

3

Add the Weight Bonus

Add the bonus based on course type: Regular = +0, Honors = +0.5, AP/IB/Dual Enrollment = +1.0. Example: A (4.0) in AP + 1.0 bonus = 5.0 weighted points.

4

Multiply by Credit Hours (Quality Points)

Multiply each weighted grade point value by the course's credit hours. Example: 5.0 weighted points × 1.0 credit = 5.0 quality points.

5

Divide: Total Quality Points ÷ Total Credits

Sum all quality points and divide by total credits. The result is your weighted GPA! Or use our Weighted GPA Calculator to skip the math.

Worked Example

Let's calculate weighted GPA for a typical high school semester:

CourseTypeGradeBaseBonusWeightedCreditsQuality Pts
AP BiologyAPA4.0+1.05.01.05.0
Honors Algebra IIHonorsA−3.7+0.54.21.04.2
English 10RegularB+3.3+03.31.03.3
AP World HistoryAPB3.0+1.04.01.04.0
Spanish IIRegularA4.0+04.01.04.0
Totals5.020.5

⭐ Weighted GPA = 20.5 ÷ 5.0 = 4.10  |  Unweighted GPA = 18.0 ÷ 5.0 = 3.60

The AP and Honors courses raised the GPA from 3.60 (unweighted) to 4.10 (weighted) — a 0.50-point boost. The biggest gains came from earning an A in AP Biology (+1.0 bonus) and an A− in Honors Algebra II (+0.5 bonus).

Common Weighting Systems

Not all schools use the same weights. Here are the most common systems:

SystemHonors BonusAP/IB BonusMax GPA
Standard (most common)+0.5+1.05.0
Half-point system+0.25+0.54.5
Quality-point system+0.5+0.54.5
No weighting+0+04.0

Always confirm your school's specific weighting policy with your guidance counselor or student handbook.

Tips for Weighted GPA Accuracy

  • Double-check your school's weights: Some schools cap AP at 4.5, others use +0.5 for Honors. Using the wrong weights gives an incorrect result.
  • Include ALL courses: Don't skip electives, PE, or arts if they count toward your GPA. Every graded course matters.
  • Adjust for credit variations: If a course is worth 0.5 or 2.0 credits, make sure to use the correct number in the calculation.
  • Compare weighted AND unweighted: Colleges look at both. Use our High School GPA Calculator to see both side by side.
  • Use exact transcript data: Round only the final result, not intermediate calculations, for the most accurate weighted GPA.

Frequently Asked Questions