How to Calculate GWA (General Weighted Average)

A clear step-by-step guide to computing your General Weighted Average manually, with formula and examples.
To calculate your GWA, multiply each subject’s final grade by its credit units. Add all the products, then divide by the total units. Formula: GWA = Σ(Grade × Units) ÷ Σ(Units). For example, with 3 subjects (3×1.75, 2×2.00, 3×1.50), the result is 1.72.

Steps to Compute GWA Manually

  1. List all your subjects with their credit units and final grades.
  2. Multiply each grade by the corresponding units.
  3. Add up all the products — this gives the weighted sum.
  4. Add up all the units — this gives the total units.
  5. Divide the weighted sum by the total units.

The GWA Formula

Formula: GWA = Σ(Grade × Units) ÷ Σ(Units)

This ensures that subjects with more units have a greater effect on your General Weighted Average.

You Know That?

Some universities exclude certain courses (like P.E. or NSTP) from the official GWA computation. Always check your school’s handbook before calculating.

Worked Examples of GWA computation

Example 1

SubjectUnitsGradeGrade × Units
Subject A31.755.25
Subject B22.004.00
Subject C31.504.50
Total813.75

GWA = 13.75 ÷ 8 = 1.72

Example 2 (Percentage Grades)

If you use 0–100 grades, the same formula applies:

GWA = (270 + 170 + 352) ÷ 9 = 87.55%

Frequently Asked Questions

What does GWA mean?

GWA stands for General Weighted Average, the average of your grades weighted by course units.

How is GWA different from GPA?

Both are weighted averages, but GPA usually uses a 4.0 scale (higher is better), while GWA uses the 1.00–5.00 scale (lower is better).

Is 1.75 a good GWA?

Yes. A GWA of 1.75 is considered strong and often qualifies for the dean’s list.

Do all subjects count in GWA?

Not always. Some schools exclude P.E. or elective courses. Always confirm with your registrar.