4.0 vs. 4.3 vs. 4.33 GPA Scales

The GPA Scale Controls the Grade Points

A GPA calculator needs a conversion table. That table says how many grade points each letter grade is worth. The most common scale gives A and A+ the same 4.0 value. Some schools give A+ extra value, often using a 4.3 or 4.33 maximum.

Standard 4.0 Scale

On a standard 4.0 scale, A and A+ usually both count as 4.0. An A- is commonly 3.7, B+ is 3.3, B is 3.0, and so on. This scale is simple and common, but it does not reward A+ above A.

4.3 and 4.33 Scales

A 4.3 or 4.33 scale gives A+ more value than A. That can slightly increase GPA for students with A+ grades. The difference is usually small across an entire transcript, but it can matter near cutoffs.

Why You Should Not Guess

The correct scale is the one your school uses. If your transcript says A+ and A both earn 4.0, choose Standard 4.0. If your catalog gives A+ a higher value, choose the matching 4.3 or 4.33 option. When applying elsewhere, follow that institution's instructions for reporting GPA.

Plus and Minus Grades

Plus and minus grades create more precision. A B+ is usually worth more than a B, and a B- is worth less. Some schools do not use plus or minus grades at all. Others use them in course grades but not in GPA calculations. Always check the transcript key or registrar page.

Use the Scale Table

Open the GPA Scale page to compare letter grades across the 4.0, 4.3, and 4.33 scales. Then use the same scale in the calculator so your estimate stays consistent.