- CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) represents overall academic performance across all semesters on a 10-point scale used by Indian universities.
- GPA (Grade Point Average) measures academic performance for a single semester on a 4.0 scale, providing a snapshot of short-term student achievement.
- CGPA calculation uses credit-weighted averages by multiplying each SGPA by semester credits and dividing by total credits earned.
Your academic performance comes down to two key numbers that universities across the world scrutinise closely. Understanding the difference between CGPA and GPA directly impacts your admission chances to competitive programmes, scholarship eligibility, and post-study work visa pathways. Whether you’re an Indian student eyeing international universities or simply wanting clarity on your grades, this guide demystifies both grading systems.
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What is CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average)?
CGPA represents your overall academic performance across all semesters on a 10-point scale, as used by Indian universities following UGC guidelines. It’s a credit-weighted average that reflects your cumulative performance throughout your degree.
How to Calculate CGPA?
In most Indian universities, CGPA is calculated using a credit-weighted system, where courses with more credit hours have a greater impact on your overall grade.
SGPA (Semester Grade Point Average): Your performance for one semester
Formula: SGPA = Total Grade Points ÷ Total Credits (for that semester)
CGPA Formula: (Sum of [SGPA × Semester Credits]) ÷ (Total Credits of all semesters).
Confused about your CGPA? Try our CGPA Calculator now!
Step-by-Step CGPA Calculation
| Semester | SGPA | Total Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 8.0 | 20 |
| 2 | 8.5 | 22 |
| 3 | 9.0 | 25 |
| 4 | 8.8 | 24 |
Step 1: Multiply each SGPA by its credits
(8.0 × 20) = 160
(8.5 × 22) = 187
(9.0 × 25) = 225
(8.8 × 24) = 211.2
Step 2: Add them all together
160 + 187 + 225 + 211.2 = 783.2
Step 3: Add total credits
20 + 22 + 25 + 24 = 91
Step 4: Divide total grade points by total credits
783.2 ÷ 91 = 8.6
Final CGPA = 8.6/10
To make calculation even easier, you can use our SGPA to CGPA Calculator!Â
Converting CGPA to Percentage
Many Indian universities and institutions often require students to convert their CGPA (on a 10-point scale) into a percentage for applications, exams, or job requirements. The most commonly used formula is:
Percentage = CGPA × 9.5Â
*This conversion factor (9.5) is recommended by the University Grants Commission (UGC) for Indian universities.
Example Calculation:
If your CGPA is 8.6, Percentage = 8.6 × 9.5 = 81.7%
What is GPA (Grade Point Average)?
GPA measures your academic performance during a single semester or term, typically on a scale of 4.0. It’s a snapshot of how well you performed in that specific period, showing short-term performance rather than your complete academic journey. Most universities outside India such as the USA, Germany and Canada use GPA as their standard grading metric, making it essential to understand if you’re applying abroad.
How to Calculate GPA?
GPA calculation follows a straightforward formula. Each grade receives a numerical value where A equals 4.0, B equals 3.0, C equals 2.0, and so on.Â
US GPA to Percentage Conversion
| Letter Grade | Percentage Range | GPA Range |
|---|---|---|
| A+ | 97-100% | 4.0 |
| A | 93-96% | 4.0 |
| A- | 90-92% | 3.7-3.9 |
| B+ | 87-89% | 3.3-3.6 |
| B | 83-86% | 3.0-3.2 |
| B- | 80-82% | 2.7-2.9 |
| C+ | 77-79% | 2.3-2.6 |
| C | 73-76% | 2.0-2.2 |
| C- | 70-72% | 1.7-1.9 |
| D+ | 67-69% | 1.3-1.6 |
| D | 65-66% | 1.0-1.2 |
| F | Below 65% | 0.0 |
GPA Formula: Grade Points × Credit Hours ÷ Total Credit Hours
For example, if you took five classes and earned three A’s (4.0 each), one B (3.0) and one C (2.0): (4.0 + 4.0 + 4.0 + 3.0 + 2.0) ÷ 5 = 3.4 GPA
Some schools also use a weighted GPA system, where courses like AP and honors classes are assigned higher GPA points.
Country-Wise GPA Systems Comparison
| Country | Grading Scale | Passing Grade | Scale Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | 4.0 | 1.0-2.0 | Linear, 4-point |
| Canada | 4.0 or 4.3 | 1.0 or 50% | Multiple scales |
| Germany | 1.0-5.0 | 4.0 (Ausreichend) | Reversed scale |
| UK | 70-point scale (Class Honours) | Third Class (40%+) | Division system |
| Australia | 7.0 scale | 4.0 or 50% | 7-point |
| India | 10.0 CGPA | 4.0-5.0 or 40% | 10-point CGPA |
CGPA to GPA Conversion: Formula and Methods
When applying to international universities, you’ll often need to convert your Indian CGPA to GPA or understand UK grade equivalents. Different universities use different conversion scales. Some institutions have their own proprietary conversion tables, whilst others adhere to a standardised method. The most commonly used formula is:Â
GPA = (CGPA × 4) divided by 10
Example: If your CGPA is 8.0, then: GPA = (8.0 × 4) divided by 10 = 3.2
CGPA TO GPA & UK Grade Classification: Conversion Examples
| CGPA (10-point) | GPA (4.0 scale) | UK Grade Classification |
|---|---|---|
| 9.5-10.0 | 3.8-4.0 | First Class Honours |
| 9.0-9.4 | 3.6-3.7 | First Class Honours |
| 8.5-8.9 | 3.4-3.5 | First Class Honours |
| 8.0-8.4 | 3.2-3.3 | Upper Second Class (2:1) |
| 7.5-7.9 | 3.0-3.1 | Upper Second Class (2:1) |
| 7.0-7.4 | 2.8-2.9 | Upper Second Class (2:1) |
| 6.5-6.9 | 2.6-2.7 | Lower Second Class (2:2) |
| 6.0-6.4 | 2.4-2.5 | Lower Second Class (2:2) |
Why Universities Require GPA and CGPA
Universities use GPA to understand your recent academic performance and your capacity to handle current-level coursework. CGPA provides a more complete picture of your academic journey, showing consistency and growth over time. Both metrics help institutions assess whether you can succeed in their programmes.
Role in University Admissions
A strong GPA shows you can perform well in current coursework. CGPA demonstrates overall academic reliability across your entire degree.Â
Scholarship and Financial Aid Eligibility
Most merit-based scholarships require minimum CGPA cutoffs. Stronger CGPA scores, typically 8.0 or higher on a 10-point scale, significantly improve your chances of receiving substantial funding.
Post-Study Work Visa and PR Pathways
A strong CGPA supports your student visa by proving academic merit. While embassies typically focus on offer letters and financial capacity, a solid academic record strengthens your visa application.
Key Takeaways
Understanding CGPA and GPA is foundational to your academic planning and international applications. GPA captures your performance in a single semester, whilst CGPA shows your complete academic journey. For international students, mastering conversion between systems is essential for competitive admissions.
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FAQs
What is the difference between GPA and CGPA?
GPA measures academic performance for a single semester on a 4.0 scale, whilst CGPA represents cumulative performance across all semesters on a 10-point scale.
How do I convert CGPA to GPA for university applications?
Multiply your CGPA by 4 and divide by 10; for example, a CGPA of 8.0 converts to a GPA of 3.2 on the 4.0 scale.
What CGPA is required for scholarships abroad?
Most merit-based scholarships require a minimum CGPA of 8.0 or higher on the 10-point scale for competitive eligibility.
How is CGPA calculated in Indian universities?
CGPA is calculated by multiplying each semester’s SGPA by its credits, summing the results, then dividing by total credits across all semesters.
What percentage equals a CGPA of 9.0?
 A CGPA of 9.0 equals 85.5% using the UGC-recommended conversion formula (CGPA × 9.5).
Do UK universities accept CGPA directly or require conversion?
Most UK universities assess CGPA within the context of the Indian grading system and often don’t require manual conversion.
What is considered a first-class CGPA in India?
A first-class or distinction typically requires a CGPA of 7.5 or above on the 10-point scale.
Can I round up my CGPA on applications?
No, you should never round up your CGPA;, as universities verify grades and discrepancies can lead to application rejection.
How do Australian universities convert Indian CGPA?
Australian universities using the 7.0 GPA scale typically multiply Indian CGPA by 0.7; for instance, an 8.0 CGPA converts to approximately 5.6 on Australia’s 7-point scale.
Is CGPA more important than entrance exam scores for postgraduate admissions?
Both matter equally; whilst CGPA demonstrates consistent academic ability, entrance exams (GRE, GMAT, GATE) prove subject mastery and aptitude.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
