Expert Verified by: David Chen, MS, PA-C • Updated: June 2024
Calculating your science GPA is a critical step in the PA school application process. Use our CASPA Science GPA Calculator to accurately determine your BCP (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) standing and plan your academic strategy.
CASPA Science GPA Calculator
Total Quality Points: 0.00
Total Science Credits: 0.00
CASPA Science GPA Formula:
$$\text{Science GPA} = \frac{\sum (\text{Grade Points} \times \text{Semester Credits})}{\sum \text{Total Science Credits}}$$
Variables:
- Grade Points: The numerical value assigned to your letter grade (e.g., A = 4.0, B = 3.0).
- Semester Credits: The weight of the course (usually 3 or 4 hours).
- Quality Points: Calculated as Grade Points multiplied by Credits for that specific course.
Related Calculators:
What is CASPA Science GPA?
The CASPA Science GPA includes all courses identified as Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (BCP). This calculation is often the most scrutinized metric by admissions committees because it demonstrates your ability to handle the rigorous scientific curriculum of PA school.
Unlike your institutional GPA, CASPA standardizes all grades across different universities. This includes repeating courses (CASPA does not replace the old grade; it averages both) and converting quarter hours to semester hours if necessary.
How to Calculate CASPA Science GPA (Example):
- List all science courses (Biology, Chemistry, Physics).
- Assign the CASPA numeric value to each grade (A=4.0, A-=3.7, etc.).
- Multiply the grade value by the credit hours to get “Quality Points” for each course.
- Sum all Quality Points together.
- Divide the total Quality Points by the total number of science credit hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Does CASPA include Math in the Science GPA? No, CASPA calculates a separate “Science GPA” (BCP) and a “Non-Science GPA.” Math is usually included in the Non-Science or Cumulative GPA.
How are repeated courses handled? CASPA includes all attempts of a course in your GPA. They do not “replace” failing grades with passing grades.
What is a competitive Science GPA for PA school? While it varies by program, a Science GPA above 3.5 is generally considered highly competitive.
Do labs count toward the Science GPA? Yes, if the lab is listed as a BCP course, its credits and grade are calculated into the science GPA.