GPA vs CGPA: what is the difference?
GPA is your grade point average for one semester. CGPA is your cumulative grade point average across every semester you have completed.
GPA vs CGPA in one minute
GPA (grade point average) answers “how did I do this semester?” It uses only the courses from that term.
CGPA (cumulative grade point average) answers “how am I doing overall?” It combines every completed semester, weighted by credit hours. Some universities call the semester figure SGPA; it means the same as GPA here.
GPA = Sum of (Credit Hours x Grade Points) / Total Credit Hours
CGPA = Total Quality Points across semesters / Total Credit Hours across semesters
GPA and CGPA side by side
| GPA | CGPA | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Grade point average | Cumulative grade point average |
| Covers | One semester | All completed semesters |
| Changes | Fresh each semester | Moves a little every semester |
| Weighted by | Credit hours of each course | Credit hours of each semester |
| Scale | Your university's scale | The same scale |
| Often used for | Semester results, probation checks | Graduation, scholarships, applications |
Example: how one semester moves your CGPA
After two semesters (3.20 and 3.80 GPA, 30 credit hours in total) the CGPA is 3.44. A third semester with a GPA of 2.90 over 15 credit hours is below that CGPA, so the CGPA falls to 3.26.
| Semester | GPA | Credit hours |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 3.20 | 18 |
| Semester 2 | 3.80 | 12 |
| Semester 3 | 2.90 | 15 |
| CGPA | 3.26 | 45 |
The step-by-step method is in how to calculate GPA and CGPA.
Which matters more, GPA or CGPA?
For most decisions that last beyond one semester (graduation requirements, scholarships, internships and applications) CGPA is the number people look at. GPA matters for each term’s result and for checks such as probation. The exact thresholds are set by your university, so confirm them in your handbook.
To plan ahead, use the target GPA calculator to find the GPA you need next semester to reach a chosen CGPA.
Frequently asked questions
What does CGPA stand for?
CGPA stands for Cumulative Grade Point Average: your grade point average across all the semesters you have completed so far.
Is GPA the same as SGPA?
In most cases, yes. Some universities say SGPA (Semester Grade Point Average) for what others simply call GPA: your average for one semester.
Which is more important, GPA or CGPA?
CGPA is usually what matters for graduation requirements, scholarships and applications, because it reflects your whole degree. GPA matters for each semester's result, dean's list style recognition and probation checks. Your university's regulations decide the exact rules.
Can my CGPA go up if my GPA is low one semester?
Only if that semester's GPA is higher than your current CGPA. A semester GPA below your CGPA pulls it down, and a semester above it pulls it up. How far it moves depends on the credit hours in that semester compared with your total so far.
Can I convert CGPA to percentage?
There is no single national formula. Each university publishes its own way to convert grades or CGPA to marks, so use the conversion in your university's regulations or ask your department.
Calculate it for your own university
Every university uses its own grade table. Pick yours and the GPA calculator and CGPA calculator use the right grade points.
Last updated 2 October 2026. Your university’s official regulations always take priority.