GPA Conversion Made Simple: From US to UK and Beyond
If you’re applying to a university abroad, you’ll soon face the dreaded question: “How does my GPA compare?” It’s not magic – you just need the right reference points and a quick calculator. Below you’ll find the most common conversion tables, a handy step‑by‑step method, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Quick Reference Tables
These tables cover the most popular systems. Use them as a starting point, then tweak for your specific school’s grading policy.
US 4‑point scale to UK degree classification
- 4.0 – 4.0 = First‑class honours (70%+)
- 3.7 – 3.9 = Upper Second (2:1) (60‑69%)
- 3.3 – 3.6 = Lower Second (2:2) (50‑59%)
- 2.7 – 3.2 = Third class (40‑49%)
- Below 2.7 = Fail
UK percentage to US GPA
- 70‑100% = 4.0
- 60‑69% = 3.7 – 3.9
- 50‑59% = 3.3 – 3.6
- 40‑49% = 2.7 – 3.2
- Below 40% = below 2.7 (often a fail)
European (ECTS) credits follow a similar pattern: A = 4.0, B = 3.0‑3.3, C = 2.0‑2.3, D = 1.0‑1.3, E/F = 0.
Step‑by‑Step Conversion Process
1. Identify the source scale. Is your transcript on a 4.0, 5.0, or percentage basis? Look for a grading key on the document.
2. Find the matching range. If you have a 3.5 GPA, it sits between 3.3 and 3.6, which converts to a UK Upper Second (2:1) in most cases.
3. Adjust for school weighting. Some schools apply a weighting factor for honors or AP courses. Add 0.1‑0.3 points if the course was honors, then re‑check the range.
4. Use an online GPA calculator. Plug your grades into a free tool that supports multiple systems – just search “GPA conversion calculator”. Most sites let you select the destination country and will do the math for you.
5. Round responsibly. Universities often round to the nearest tenth. A 3.84 might be reported as 3.8 or 3.9 depending on their policy.
That’s it – you’ve turned a raw number into something admissions officers understand.
Tips to Keep Your Conversion Accurate
Check the university’s own guidelines. Many UK schools publish their own conversion tables. Follow those if they’re available; they’ll carry more weight than a generic chart.
Include a transcript legend. When you send your application, attach the original grading key. It helps the admissions team see exactly how you arrived at the converted GPA.
Don’t forget extra‑curricular weighting. Some programmes give extra points for internships or work experience. Mention these separately, not as part of GPA.
Beware of scale differences. A 5.0 scale (used by some international schools) is not the same as a 4.0 scale. Convert first to a percentage, then to the target system.
Ask for a professional evaluation. If you’re unsure, services like WES (World Education Services) provide official credential evaluations for a fee.
With these tables, steps, and tips you can turn any grade into a format that makes sense wherever you apply. No more guessing, no more wasted applications – just clear, comparable numbers that show your true academic level.
