Calculate your University of California Capped, Uncapped, and Unweighted GPA instantly.
Course Grades (10th & 11th Grade A-G Courses)
Enter the total number of semester courses for each letter grade received during the summer after 9th grade through the summer after 11th grade.
4 points each
3 points each
2 points each
1 point each (Not accepted for A-G completion)
0 points
Honors / AP / IB / College Courses
Only UC-approved honors courses taken in 10th/11th grade count. Maximum 8 semesters capped.
Honors count cannot exceed total courses.
UC Weighted GPA (Capped)
0.00
Primary Admission GPA
Unweighted GPA
0.00
Fully Weighted (Uncapped)
0.00
Total Semester Courses
0
Formula used: (Total Grade Points + Capped Honors Points) / Total Semesters.
Honors points are capped at 8 semesters (4 full-year courses).
Figure 1: Comparison of UC GPA Calculation Methods
Metric
Value
Description
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What is the UC Weighted GPA Calculator?
The UC Weighted GPA Calculator is a specialized tool designed to determine a student's Grade Point Average according to the specific admissions protocols of the University of California (UC) system. Unlike standard high school GPAs, the UC system calculates three distinct GPAs based on "A-G" coursework completed specifically between the summer after 9th grade and the summer after 11th grade.
This calculator is essential for high school students planning to apply to schools like UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, and other UC campuses. It helps prospective applicants understand their standing by calculating the Capped Weighted GPA (the primary metric used for eligibility), the Uncapped Weighted GPA, and the Unweighted GPA.
Common misconceptions include believing that 9th-grade grades affect the GPA calculation (they do not, though they are reviewed) or that an unlimited number of AP classes will indefinitely raise the Capped GPA used for the statewide eligibility index.
UC Weighted GPA Formula and Mathematical Explanation
The University of California uses a precise formula to standardize grades across different high schools. The core calculation focuses on A-G subject requirements.
The Steps:
Convert Grades to Points: A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0.
Sum Grade Points: Calculate the total points from all A-G courses taken in 10th and 11th grade.
Add Honors Points: Add 1 extra point for each semester of a UC-approved Honors, AP, IB, or transferable college course.
Apply the Cap: For the "UC GPA" (Capped), you can only add a maximum of 8 honors points.
Divide: Divide the adjusted total points by the total number of semester courses.
Variables used in UC GPA Calculation
Variable
Meaning
Unit
Typical Range
Total Grade Points
Sum of base points (A=4, B=3…)
Points
20 – 120
Total Semesters
Count of all A-G courses taken
Count
10 – 28
Honors Points
Extra points for rigorous courses
Points
0 – 16+
The Cap
Maximum honors points allowed in Capped GPA
Points
Max 8
Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)
Example 1: The "Capped" Effect
Student A takes 24 semester courses in 10th and 11th grade. They have straight A's and have taken 6 full-year AP courses (12 semesters of honors).
Base Points: 24 courses × 4 points = 96 points.
Honors Input: 12 semesters.
Unweighted GPA: 96 / 24 = 4.00.
UC Capped GPA: The honors points are capped at 8. (96 + 8) / 24 = 104 / 24 = 4.33.
UC Capped GPA: Honors points (4) are below the cap (8). (66 + 4) / 20 = 70 / 20 = 3.50.
How to Use This UC Weighted GPA Calculator
Follow these steps to ensure an accurate calculation:
Gather Transcripts: Have your 10th and 11th-grade transcripts or report cards ready. Do not include 9th grade or 12th grade in the input fields.
Count Letter Grades: Count the total number of semester courses where you received an A, B, C, D, or F. Enter these into the respective fields.
Count Honors Semesters: Count the number of semesters designated as UC-Honors, AP, or IB. Enter this in the "Total Semesters of Honors" field.
Review Results: The calculator immediately updates. Focus on the "UC Weighted GPA (Capped)" for eligibility determination.
Key Factors That Affect UC Weighted GPA Results
Several financial and academic factors influence the final output of a uc weighted gpa calculator:
Course Rigor: Taking AP/IB courses increases the numerator of your equation, but only up to the 8-semester cap for the primary metric.
Total Number of Courses: Because the cap is fixed at 8 points, taking more total courses can actually dilute your weighted GPA if those extra courses are not honors courses, as the denominator increases while the maximum bonus points remain static.
A-G Compliance: Only courses that satisfy the A-G subject requirements are calculated. PE, Health, or Teacher's Aide usually do not count.
Summer School: Courses taken in the summer after 9th, 10th, and 11th grade are included in the calculation and can boost your GPA.
Grade Validation: A "D" or "F" grade can be replaced in the calculation if the exact same course is repeated with a grade of "C" or higher.
Out-of-State Honors: For non-CA residents, only AP and IB courses usually count for the weighted point. School-specific "Honors" classes generally do not carry weight for out-of-state applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does 9th grade count in the UC GPA?
No, grades from 9th grade are not included in the UC GPA calculation, but they are reviewed to ensure you passed A-G requirements.
What is the maximum UC Weighted GPA?
The maximum Capped GPA typically tops out around 4.4, depending on the number of courses taken. The Uncapped GPA can go higher, often up to 5.0.
How many honors points are capped?
The UC system caps honors points at 8 semester courses (equivalent to 4 year-long classes) for the standard weighted GPA.
Do "+" and "-" grades matter (e.g., B+ or A-)?
No. The UC system does not use pluses or minuses in the GPA calculation. An A- counts exactly the same as an A+.
What is a good UC Weighted GPA?
For top-tier campuses like UCLA or Berkeley, admitted students often have a Capped GPA above 4.2 and an Uncapped GPA above 4.5. However, this varies by major and campus.
Does this calculator handle repeated courses?
You should input the grade from the repeated attempt if you successfully replaced a D or F. Do not input the failing grade.
Do community college classes count?
Yes, transferable college courses taken during high school (10th-11th) count as Honors courses and receive the weighted point.
Why is my Unweighted GPA important?
Admissions officers look at the Unweighted GPA to see your raw performance without the inflation of honors points, ensuring you have mastered the core material.
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