Every detail matters when it comes to studying abroad, from selecting the right course to understanding how your academic performance will be evaluated, there are a lot of attributes to take care of. One of the key aspects of the education system that varies significantly across countries is the grading system. In the United States, this system is distinct and has been carefully constructed to provide a holistic evaluation of students' academic capabilities.

If you are planning to apply for higher studies in the USA, then understanding its grading system is important. It helps you assess your eligibility for admission, gauge your academic standing, and even prepare for what lies ahead.

In this article, have jotted down the various grading systems used in the USA, explained how they work, and guided you on converting your grades to ensure a smooth application process. Whether you are applying for undergraduate or graduate programs, this article has all the knowledge you need to study in the USA.

Table of Content

1. Types of Grading Systems to Study in the USA
2. Types of GPA Grading Systems to Study in the USA
3. Grade Conversion Process to Study in the USA
4. FAQs

Types of Grading Systems to Study in the USA

The USA has a versatile grading system to evaluate student academic performance. Broadly, these can be categorized into two primary systems:

1. Letter Grade System

The Letter Grade System is the primary choice of academic evaluation in the USA. This system uses letters ranging from A to F to represent a student’s performance. Additionally, many universities use “+” and “-” to add accuracy to the scores. The general letter grade along with the indicative percentile are listed below:

These grades have their individual specifications, letter grade ‘A’ validates exceptional understanding and mastery of the subject matter. On the other hand, the letter grade ‘F’ denotes unsatisfactory performance, requiring the course to be retaken.

2. Numerical Grade System

In certain academic settings, specifically in courses with objective assessments like science, a Numerical Grade System is used. Grades are directly assigned as percentages, and each percentage range is linked to a letter grade.

For example:

• 95% = A
• 85% = B
• 75% = C

While the Numerical Grade System is easy to convert, the Letter Grade System remains the most widely used across Universities in USA.

Beyond these individual course grades, there is a Grade Point Average (GPA) system to represent a student's overall academic performance in the USA. Going further, let’s have a glance at the details.

Types of GPA Grading Systems to Study in the USA

In addition to individual course grades, US universities place great emphasis on the Grade Point Average (GPA). These scores are decisive for admissions, scholarships, and internships. As a standard scale used by most universities in the USA, it ranges from 0.0 to 4.0 and does not factor in the difficulty of courses. The common type of GPA includes:

1. Cumulative GPA (CGPA)
2. Semester GPA (SGPA)
3. Class GPA

Each letter grade corresponds to a specific GPA value, the details are listed in the table below:

Most US universities set minimum GPA requirements for admissions. For instance, Undergraduate courses require a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Similarly, Graduate courses need a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Additionally, some prestigious Universities or programs may demand GPAs above these thresholds.

Now that you know everything about the grading system for this top study destination, we understand that these may initially seem worlds apart. That is why to study in USA, let’s discuss how to align the scores on the same track.

Grade Conversion Process to Study in the USA

Universities in the USA are accustomed to evaluating international transcripts and often provide specific guidelines for converting grades. A general conversion framework might look like this:

• 97–100% = 4.0 GPA (USA)
• 87–89% = 3.5 GPA
• 83–86% = 3.0 GPA
• 77–79% = 2.5 GPA
• 73–76% = 2.0 GPA

Furthermore, you can use credential evaluation services like WES (World Education Services) or refer to the conversion tools provided by your shortlisted universities for accurate results.

In conclusion, understanding the grading system in the USA is an essential step for students aspiring to pursue their higher education and you have completed this step. While the system may initially appear complex, it is structured to offer a comprehensive evaluation of students’ academic performance. Moreover, converting grades from your country's standards to US standards is a simple process with the right guidance and tools.

To study in USA, consultants and Experts at KC are here to support you! Whether you need assistance with grade conversions, application processes, or any other aspect of studying in the USA, our Experts are available in person or virtually to guide you comprehensively.