Academic Policies and Procedures ยป Grade Point Average (GPA)
Semester and cumulative grade point averages (GPA), which are the basis for assessing students' academic standing and eligibility to graduate, are derived as follows. Each credit graded "A" through "F" is given a corresponding numerical value called "quality points." The following chart shows the quality points earned by one credit:
A......4.00 C......2.00
A-.....3.67 C-....1.67
B+....3.33 D+....1.33
B......3.00 D......1.00
B-.....2.67 D-.....0.67
C+....2.33 F...... 0.00
Grade point averages are determined by dividing the credits graded "A" through "F" into the number of quality points those credits earned. The semester GPA includes just the credit and quality points of that semester. The cumulative GPA is based upon the totals for all semesters and summer sessions at New Paltz. Both computations exclude credits graded "S", "S*" (Satisfactory), "R" (Repeat), "U", "U*" (Unsatisfactory), and "P" (Pass). Credits and quality points earned at other institutions are also excluded. New Paltz grade point averages reflect only the averages earned in courses taken in residence at New Paltz.
The following is an example of a GPA calculation for a first semester student:
Composition 1
3 credits, B+ = 9.99 total quality points (3 credits X 3.33 quality points)
College Algebra
3 credits, C- = 5.01 total quality points (3 credits X 1.67 quality points)
Modern World
4 credits, A = 16 total quality points (4 credits X 4.00 quality points)
General Biology 1
4 credits, D = 4 total quality points (4 credits X 1.00 quality points)
Piano 1
2 credits, A = 8 total quality points (2 credits X 4 quality points)
TOTAL CREDITS FOR SEMESTER = 16
TOTAL QUALITY POINTS FOR SEMESTER = 43
SEMESTER GPA = 2.68 (43/16)
One strategy in raising a GPA is to repeat courses in which a low grade was earned. For instance, in the above example, the student might consider retaking General Biology 1. If the student earned a higher grade the second time, that grade would replace the prior grade in the cumulative GPA (see section on Replace Grading Policy in Handbook for details). If the above student pursued that strategy and received a C+, the student would receive 5.32 additional quality points (the difference between a 4 credit "D" and a 4 credit " C+." This strategy should only be pursued, however, if the student thinks she can significantly improve the grade in the course. The GPA Projection Tool, located at my.newpaltz.edu, under My.Tools, can help you determine what grades you need to earn to attain a certain GPA. Students may also contact the Office of Academic Advising to discuss GPA projection.
