GPA vs GWA — What’s the Difference?

A clear guide to Grade Point Average and General Weighted Average, with formulas, scales, and examples.
GPA stands for Grade Point Average and is commonly used in the US and many international schools. GWA means General Weighted Average and is widely used in the Philippines and parts of Asia. Both are weighted averages, but schools use different scales and grade conversions. In short: both measure academic performance; GPA usually uses a 4.0 or 5.0 scale, while GWA often uses the 1.00–5.00 scale where lower is better.

What do GPA and GWA mean?

GPA (Grade Point Average) is the average of grade points earned across courses, weighted by credit hours, on a scale such as 0–4.0 or 0–5.0. GWA (General Weighted Average) is the weighted mean of final grades by credit units, commonly using the 1.00–5.00 scale where 1.00 is highest.

Side-by-Side Comparison: GPA vs GWA

Aspect GPA (Grade Point Average) GWA (General Weighted Average)
Common Regions US, Canada, international programs Philippines, selected Asian universities
Typical Scale 0.0–4.0 (sometimes 0.0–5.0) 1.00–5.00 (lower is better)
Core Idea Weighted average of course grade points by credit hours Weighted average of final grades by credit units
Formula Σ(grade points × credits) ÷ Σ(credits) Σ(grade × units) ÷ Σ(units)
Interpretation Higher is better (e.g., 3.7 is strong) Lower is better (e.g., 1.75 is strong)
Use Cases Admissions, scholarships, academic standing Dean’s list, Latin honors, scholarships

Tip: When applying internationally, schools may request a transcript and convert your GWA to an equivalent GPA scale.

Worked Examples

Example 1 — GWA on 1.00–5.00 scale

  1. Course A: 3 units × 1.75 = 5.25
  2. Course B: 2 units × 2.00 = 4.00
  3. Course C: 3 units × 1.50 = 4.50

GWA = (5.25 + 4.00 + 4.50) ÷ 8 = 1.72

Example 2 — GPA on 4.0 scale

  1. Course A: 3 credits × 3.7 = 11.1
  2. Course B: 4 credits × 3.3 = 13.2
  3. Course C: 2 credits × 4.0 = 8.0

GPA = (11.1 + 13.2 + 8.0) ÷ 9 = 3.58

You Know That?

Some schools cap the maximum grade points for retaken classes or exclude certain electives from the weighted average. Always check your university’s handbook before converting GWA to GPA or vice versa.

  • Capstone or lab courses with higher credits can shift your average dramatically.
  • Transcripts may show both term and cumulative averages.
  • Scholarships often specify a minimum GWA/GPA and a minimum load.

Converting GWA to GPA (and Back)

There is no single universal conversion because schools use different scales and mappings. A common approach is to line up grade bands. For example:

These bands are illustrative only. Always follow the official conversion table of the receiving institution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is GPA the same as GWA?

No. Both are weighted averages, but they use different scales and regional conventions.

Which matters for scholarships, GPA or GWA?

It depends on the scholarship provider. Philippine programs often reference GWA, while international scholarships usually reference GPA.

Is a 1.75 GWA good?

Yes, a 1.75 GWA is typically considered strong and may qualify for dean’s list depending on policy.

Can I submit both GWA and GPA on applications?

Yes. Provide your transcript and, if required, include the school’s official conversion or a note about the grading scale.