CGPA vs GPA in College Applications: Everything You Need to Know

CGPA vs GPA: Academic grading systems play an important role in shaping candidates' educational journey, especially when planning to apply for universities abroad. Understanding the difference between CGPA vs GPA is important, especially for Indian students planning higher education abroad. The sections below break down these systems clearly, including tools like CGPA calculator, the Indian CGPA to GPA converter, and methods on how to calculate CGPA and GPA.

What is CGPA

Cumulative Grade Point Average(CGPA) is a grading system used in various indian and international institutions to assess overall academic performance in a course over time.

Key Features:

• Used commonly in Indian colleges and universities

• Measures overall performance over semesters

• Usually scaled on 10 points (sometimes 4 to 7)

What is GPA

Grade Point Average (GPA) is used in countries like the USA, Canada, and parts of Europe to evaluate students' academic performance for a particular semester or academic year.

Key Features:

• Semester-wise performance

• Typically on a 4.0 or 5.0 scale

• Used for scholarships, admissions, and academic records

Key Difference between CGPA and GPA

CGPA and GPA may appear similar, but they have distinct purposes and follow different calculation methods. The table below highlights the key differences between CGPA and GPA, including their time frames, scales, and regional applications:

CGPA to Percentage Conversion

Many Indian colleges and universities announce academic performance in CGPA. However, higher studies or job applications require a percentage format. Check below the standard formula:

Standard Formula:

Percentage = CGPA × 9.5

Notes: Some universities use 10 as a multiplier instead of 9.5

CGPA Calculator and GPA Calculator

Calculating grades manually can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Online tools such as CGPA calculators and GPA calculators simplify this process. Check below the tools available to calculate CGPA and GPA score:

Tools Available:

• Online CGPA calculators (enter semester grades)
  
  

• GPA converters (suitable for international applications)
  
  

• Excel templates from university websites

Indian CGPA to GPA Converter Explained

Foreign universities often require GPA on a 4.0 scale. Here’s a basic Indian CGPA to GPA converter method:

Approximate Conversion (10-point CGPA to 4.0 GPA)

How to Calculate CGPA

If the institution doesn’t provide a final CGPA, candidates may need to calculate it themselves. The section below provides steps to calculate CGPA from the candidate's grade points and subject:

Steps:

1. Candidates can add all their grade points for the subjects.
   
   

2. Divide the sum by the number of subjects.

Example:

Subjects Grade Points: 9, 8, 7, 9, 8

Total = 41

CGPA = 41 ÷ 5 = 8.2

How to Calculate GPA

Similar to CGPA, GPA also requires a structured method of calculation, especially when credit hours vary by subject. Below is a formula and an example of how to calculate GPA:

GPA = (Grade Points × Credit Hours) ÷ Total Credit Hours

CGPA vs GPA Percentage Comparison

Check the table below to compare CGPA and GPA when converted to percentages:

 CGPA vs GPA in Indian Colleges vs Foreign Colleges

In India:

• CGPA is widely used in CBSE, ICSE, and most universities.
  
  

• A 10-point scale is common.
  
  

In Foreign Colleges:

• GPA (4.0 scale) is standard in the US, Canada, and Australia.
  
  

• Sometimes weighted GPAs (e.g., 4.5 or 5.0) are used in advanced placement courses.

CGPA vs GPA, Which One Matters for Abroad Studies?

For candidates applying to universities in the US, Canada, or Europe, GPA is the standard measurement. Indian students need to convert their CGPA appropriately. Universities may:

• Provide their conversion chart
  
  

• Use credential evaluators like WES, ECE, or IQAS
  
  

• Accept transcripts along with grading scale documentation