A grade point average (GPA) is a numerical representation of academic achievement, typically calculated on a 4.0 scale. Tools designed for specific institutions, such as one tailored for Loyola University, might consider the institution’s grading system nuances, including weighting for honors or AP courses, if applicable. For example, a student might use such a tool to input course grades and credit hours to determine a semester or cumulative GPA.
Calculating GPA provides students with a clear measure of academic progress. This information is crucial for academic advising, scholarship eligibility, and graduate program applications. Historically, GPAs have served as a standardized metric to compare academic performance across different courses and institutions. Understanding this metric empowers students to make informed decisions about course selection and overall academic strategy.