Last Updated on August 26, 2025
What is the Difference Between GPA and CGPA?
Overview
When it comes to academics, especially for students planning to study abroad, two terms often create confusion: GPA (Grade Point Average) and CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average). While both are used to measure academic performance, they differ in scope, calculation, and usage. Understanding the difference between GPA and CGPA is crucial for students in India and worldwide, as most international universities assess applications using GPA.
What is GPA?
GPA stands for Grade Point Average. It reflects a student’s average performance in a single term, semester, or academic year. GPA is calculated by assigning numerical values (grade points) to letter grades (A, B, C, etc.), then dividing the total grade points earned by the number of credits attempted.
Example: On a 4.0 GPA scale
- A = 4.0
- B = 3.0
- C = 2.0
- D = 1.0
- F = 0
If a student earns an A in one subject (4.0) and a B in another (3.0), their GPA for the semester would be 3.5.
What is CGPA?
CGPA stands for Cumulative Grade Point Average. It reflects a student’s overall academic performance across multiple semesters or an entire course. In India, many universities and schools use the 10-point CGPA system.
Example: If a student’s GPAs for four semesters are 3.2, 3.5, 3.8, and 3.6, their CGPA = (3.2 + 3.5 + 3.8 + 3.6) ÷ 4 = 3.52.
This cumulative measure is useful for showing overall consistency in performance.
Key Differences Between GPA and CGPA
| Aspect | GPA | CGPA |
|---|---|---|
|
Full Form |
Grade Point Average |
Cumulative Grade Point Average |
|
Scope |
Measures performance in a single term or semester |
Measures overall performance across all terms/semesters |
|
Scale |
Usually on a 4.0 or 5.0 scale (used internationally) |
Often on a 10-point scale (commonly used in India) |
|
Usage |
Evaluates short-term academic performance |
Evaluates long-term academic performance |
|
Application |
Preferred by universities abroad for admissions |
Used mainly by Indian schools & universities |
Which is More Important: GPA or CGPA?
Both GPA and CGPA have their importance:
- In India → CGPA is widely used in schools and colleges.
- For study abroad → Most international universities prefer GPA on a 4.0 scale, so students with CGPA may need to convert it.
Admissions committees often ask for GPA to compare applicants from different countries fairly.
How to Convert CGPA to GPA?
Since India uses a 10-point CGPA system, students often need to convert it into GPA for study abroad applications. While there isn’t a universal formula, a general method is:
GPA = (CGPA ÷ 10) × 4
Example: A CGPA of 8.5 out of 10 ≈ 3.4 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
However, each university may have its own conversion policy, so it’s always best t Ugh o check with the admission office.
Conclusion
The main difference between GPA and CGPA lies in their scope: GPA measures performance for a shorter duration, while CGPA reflects cumulative academic achievement. For students in India planning to study abroad, understanding this difference—and converting CGPA to GPA correctly—can make the admission process smoother.
By keeping track of your GPA/CGPA, you not only monitor academic progress but also strengthen your study abroad profile for top universities.
FAQs on GPA vs CGPA
What is the difference between GPA and CGPA?
GPA (Grade Point Average) is the average score of a student in a single semester or term, while CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) represents the overall academic performance across all semesters. GPA focuses on short-term performance, whereas CGPA gives a long-term academic overview.
Which is more important: GPA or CGPA?
Both GPA and CGPA are important, but their relevance depends on the context. GPA is often considered for semester-based progress and scholarships, while CGPA reflects overall academic performance and is widely used by universities for admissions, especially for study abroad.
How is GPA calculated compared to CGPA?
GPA is calculated by dividing the total grade points earned in a semester by the total number of credits. CGPA, on the other hand, is the weighted average of GPA scores across multiple semesters. Universities may follow different GPA scales (4.0, 5.0, or 10.0).
Is GPA used for study abroad applications?
Yes, universities abroad, especially in the USA, Canada, and Australia, typically ask for GPA or convert your CGPA/percentage into their GPA scale. A higher GPA significantly improves your chances of admission to top-ranked universities.
What is the difference between GPA and percentage?
GPA measures academic performance on a grade point scale (such as 4.0 or 10.0), while percentage is calculated out of 100. Many universities convert percentages to GPA for international applicants during admissions.
