Key takeaways
- When you apply to foreign universities, you must submit your CGPA or GPA score. The popular study destinations, such as the USA, UK, and Australia, use GPA for evaluation.
- Converting CGPA to GPA standardises the academic scores in accordance with the global grading scales and ensures that the performance is comparable on an international level.
- CGPA reflects your overall academic performance, while GPA represents your academic performance in a single semester.
- Universities prefer GPA during admission decisions since GPA demonstrates your semester-wise and recent performance.
- Conversion from CGPA to GPA is done either manually using the specified formula or with the help of online calculators
Let us help you understand more about the CGPA to GPA conversion. Talk to our experts!
You have to convert your CGPA to GPA while applying to foreign universities so that your academic scores are comparable to international standards. Keep reading to know more about the CGPA to GPA conversion and calculator for studying abroad.
Table of Contents
- Importance of CGPA to GPA conversion for studying abroad
- Understanding CGPA: Definition and calculation
- Understanding GPA: Definition and scales
- Key differences between CGPA and GPA
- Reasons universities require a GPA instead of a CGPA
- How to convert CGPA to GPA
- Step-by-step guide to convert CGPA to GPA manually
- Common formulas used for CGPA to GPA conversion
- How to convert CGPA to GPA using online calculators
- How to choose the right CGPA to GPA converter tool
- Limitations of CGPA to GPA conversion calculators
- Tips for ensuring accuracy in conversion for applications
- Final thoughts
- Frequently asked questions
- Can I convert CGPA to GPA?
- Are the CGPA to GPA conversion formulas universal?
- How accurate are online CGPA to GPA calculators?
- Where can I find official guidelines for CGPA to GPA conversions used by universities?
- Does converting CGPA to GPA lower my academic score?
- Which universities require a CGPA to be converted into a GPA?
- Can I use online CGPA to GPA calculators for university applications?
- Do universities prefer CGPA or GPA for admission?
Importance of CGPA to GPA conversion for studying abroad
When you apply to a foreign university, you have to submit your CGPA or GPA score. The admission requirements vary for different universities, and many specifically require your GPA scores. The universities in popular study abroad destinations such as the USA, UK, and Australia use a GPA-based system for admission.
Conversion of CGPA to GPA ensures that your academic scores are aligned with global standards, making it easy to assess your performance against other students. By using a standard conversion formula, you can ensure that your academic performance is in a format accepted by international institutions.
Understanding CGPA: Definition and calculation
Cumulative Grade Point Average or CGPA is an assessment of your overall academic performance. To calculate your CGPA, multiply the grade points of each subject or semester by the credit hours. Next, find the sum of all the weighted grade points. Divide this by the sum of the credit hours to arrive at the CGPA.
The formula to calculate CGPA is:
CGPA = ∑(Grade Points × Credit Hours) / ∑ Credit Hours
Understanding GPA: Definition and scales
Grade Point Average, or GPA, is the assessment of your overall performance over a semester. It’s normally represented on a scale of five grades: A, B, C, D, F. Grade A represents the highest achievement, while F represents a failing grade.
Note: USA universities use a 4-point grading system.
To calculate the GPA, first calculate the grade points by multiplying the grade by the credit hours for the course. Add the grade points and divide the total by the total credit hours to arrive at the GPA.
Key differences between CGPA and GPA
CGPA and GPA are used by foreign universities to decide your admissions, scholarships, and more. Hence, understanding the difference between them can help you while applying for your higher studies abroad.
GPA measures your performance in a single semester while CGPA measures your overall academic performance, taking into account the scores from each semester.
Take a look at the key differences between CGPA and GPA:
Parameter | CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) | GPA (Grade Point Average) |
Scope | Entire academic programme duration | Single semester or academic term |
Scale | Usually a 10-point scale (can vary by institution) | Commonly a 4-point scale globally |
Purpose | Reflects overall academic performance | Reflects academic performance in a semester |
Usage | Primarily used in India and similar grading systems | Widely used in the USA, Canada, the UK, and many other countries |
Why do you need to convert CGPA to GPA?
While applying to universities abroad, you might need to convert your CGPA to GPA. Take a look at the key reasons.
- Standardised evaluation
- Scholarship eligibility
- Alignment with international systems
- Post-study work visa
Standardised evaluation
Many universities use a 4.0 scale for academic evaluation. Converting your CGPA to GPA will ensure a standard and fair evaluation.
Scholarship eligibility
Scholarships use GPA scores as a part of eligibility screening. Converting your CGPA to GPA accurately is essential to securing scholarships.
Alignment with international systems
When you apply to foreign universities, it is essential to provide scores that are understandable and comparable. Converting CGPA to GPA aligns your academic scores with global education standards.
Post-study work visa
Employers also use GPA to assess your competence. Providing your GPA scores during the recruitment process will increase your employability prospects.
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Reasons universities require a GPA instead of a CGPA
Universities require details of your most accurate and current academic performance. Since GPA demonstrates your performance in each semester, it is generally preferred over CGPA, which is a measure of the overall performance.
GPA gives an insight into the trend of academic progress. A student may have a lower CGPA score but might have displayed consistent improvement in each semester, which is shown by an upward trend in the GPA score. This also reflects the ability to learn and improve.
In addition, GPA is an indication of the current academic performance. Certain universities prefer to undertake the most recent performance from the last few semesters. CGPA, being an average score, does not reflect only the entire academic record.
How to convert CGPA to GPA
You can convert your CGPA to GPA in two ways: manually or using the calculator tool. Below are more details about both methods to help you convert your CGPA easily.
Step-by-step guide to convert CGPA to GPA manually
Here is a step-by-step guide to convert CGPA to GPA manually.
- Find your CGPA score on your academic transcript, which is usually shown on a 10-point scale in Indian universities.
- Divide your CGPA score by 10 to normalise it to a 0 to 1 scale.
Normalised CGPA = Your CGPA / 10
- Multiply the normalised CGPA by the GPA scale used by the university you are applying to. For many international universities, this is 4.0
GPA = Normalised CGPA×4
The result is your estimated GPA on the 4.0 scale.
Example calculation:
If your CGPA = 7.8 (on a 10-point scale), the your GPA=(7.8/10)×4 = 3.12
So, your GPA is 3.12 on a 4-point scale.
Note: The formula may vary based on the university’s conversion requirements. Check the official guidelines of the university for more details.
Common formulas used for CGPA to GPA conversion
There are many simple and practical formulas you can use to convert CGPA to GPA. Here are the common ones:
- Simple ratio formula
The formula divides the CGPA by the maximum CGPA scale and then multiplies it by the GPA scale.
GPA=(CGPA/10)×4 - Scale adjustment for CGPA systems
If the CGPA scale is not 10, first convert it to the 10-point scale by multiplication. For a 9-point scale, multiply by 1.1 and for a 7-point scale, multiply by 1.43.
Then apply the general formula GPA=(CGPA/10)×4
. - Use conversion table
Some universities use approximate equivalencies between CGPA ranges and GPA letter grades (A, B, C, etc.). An example is given below:
CGPA (10 point) | GPA (4 point) | Letter grade |
9 - 10 | 3.6 - 4.0 | A |
8 - 8.9 | 3.2 - 3.5 | B |
7 - 7.9 | 2.8 - 3.1 | C |
- Percentage-based conversion
CGPA must first be converted to a percentage
Percentage = (CGPA × 9.5), and then the percentage can be converted to GPA.
For example:
Percentage = CGPA × 9.5
GPA = (Percentage / 100) × 4
Examples of CGPA to GPA conversion
Example 1:
CGPA = 6.4
GPA = (6.4/10) × 4 = 2.56
GPA = (10/6.4) × 4 = 2.56
So, 6.4 CGPA converts to a GPA of 2.56
Example 2:
CGPA = 9.1
GPA = (9.1/10) × 4 = 3.64
GPA = (10/9.1) × 4 = 3.64
So, 9.1 CGPA converts to a GPA of 3.64
How to convert CGPA to GPA using online calculators
To convert CGPA to GPA using an online calculator tool, the typical process is:
- Find an online CGPA to GPA converter.
- Enter your CGPA into the tool.
The common formula applied is:
GPA = (CGPA/10) × 4
- Click Calculate to get the equivalent GPA.
Note: The formula may vary slightly based on the calculator and institutional rules. Verify with your university’s official guidelines for the exact official conversion.
How to choose the right CGPA to GPA converter tool
Choosing the right CGPA to GPA convertor tool is essential to get an accurate score which reflects your academic performance. Here are the important factors you should keep in mind for choosing the right CGPA to GPA converter tool.
Accuracy of the tool
Select tools that use recognised formulas. You should also use a formula that aligns with the grading policy of the university you are applying to.
Simplicity of the user interface
Use online converters with user-friendly interfaces where only minimal input is required for the calculation. Also, look for additional supportive features, such as exporting or saving the results.
Easy to customise
Ensure that the calculator you choose is easy to customise according to the institutional requirements. It should be able to meet the grading standards of global educational systems.
Reliability and data privacy
The online calculator should be reliable and protect data privacy. It should not store or share your personal or academic data. So, ensure that the tool has a solid reputation and is linked to educational platforms.
Limitations of CGPA to GPA conversion calculators
Online CGPA to GPA conversion calculators have many limitations. Different universities and countries follow different CGPA and GPA scales. As a result, a universal conversion formula often becomes less reliable. The conversions are a single numerical value which do not reflect all aspects of your academic performance. It does not take into account the difficulty of your coursework or how your performance compares to your peers.
Many calculators make rounding errors, which may lead to inaccurate figures. Hence, over-reliance on the scores provided by calculators may cause discrepancies during the admission process. These calculators should be used as a preliminary estimate. For official purposes, it is advised to rely on recognised credential evaluation services.
Tips for ensuring accuracy in conversion for applications
Check your official grading scale and ensure to use the correct CGPA value in the calculations. Follow the correct conversion formula. For this, first check the formula used by the university and ensure that you align with the same.
It’s recommended to review the university’s guidelines regarding conversion. The universities may have specific conversion rules or require official credential evaluations. Use only the calculators recommended by recognised portals or universities. Validate your conversion with university admissions offices or recognised consultants.
Final thoughts
Online CGPA to GPA calculators are a convenient tool for international students to estimate their GPA from their CGPA scores. These tools make use of mathematical formulas and provide an approximate GPA that helps you present your academic record in an accepted format.
However, the accuracy of the calculators may vary due to the differences in university policies and grading scales. Use the online calculators as a preliminary tool and plan your application based on the official guidelines of the university.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I convert CGPA to GPA?
Yes, you can convert CGPA to GPA either manually using a specific formula or by using an online calculator. However, check with the university you are applying to and review their official guidelines for the accurate conversion.
Are the CGPA to GPA conversion formulas universal?
No, the CGPA to GPA conversion formulas vary by country and university. The common formula used is GPA = (CGPA/10) × 4. However, you should check with the university’s specific guidelines for an accurate conversion.
How accurate are online CGPA to GPA calculators?
Online CGPA to GPA calculators provide a useful estimation of your academic performance for studying abroad. But these are not universally accurate since there is no single, official formula specified for conversion.
Where can I find official guidelines for CGPA to GPA conversions used by universities?
For the official CGPA to GPA conversion guidelines, check the specific university you are applying to. Since there is no single universal conversion method, the policies will vary based on the university and country.
Does converting CGPA to GPA lower my academic score?
Converting CGPA to GPA involves a scale adjustment formula. It does not affect your academic score. With the conversion, your academic score is represented in a different format.
Which universities require a CGPA to be converted into a GPA?
Universities in the USA, Canada, and Australia require you to convert your CGPA to GPA. While converting, you can apply a standardised conversion formula. The process ensures fair evaluation and comparison of your academic scores.
Can I use online CGPA to GPA calculators for university applications?
Yes, you can use the CGPA to GPA calculators for an approximate conversion. However, many universities accept these only as a rough estimate and often require you to provide an official transcript evaluation through services like WES or ECE.
Do universities prefer CGPA or GPA for admission?
This is based on the admissions policy and regional grading system of the university. In countries like the USA and Canada, GPA is preferred for admission, whereas in many other countries, such as India, CGPA is used for admission since it is a comprehensive evaluation of your academic performance.