GPA Calculator
Compute your weighted GPA using the Philippine 1.0–5.0 grading scale.
The Philippine Grading System Explained
Unlike the 4.0-scale GPA system used in most American universities, Philippine colleges and universities use a 1.0 to 5.0 grading scale where lower numbers represent better performance. A grade of 1.00 is the highest possible mark (Excellent), while 5.00 means Failed. This can be counterintuitive for students comparing their academic standing with international peers.
Standard Philippine 1.0–5.0 Grading Scale
| Grade | Descriptor | Percentage Equivalent | US Letter Grade (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.00 | Excellent | 97–100% | A+ |
| 1.25 | Excellent | 94–96% | A |
| 1.50 | Very Good | 91–93% | A− |
| 1.75 | Very Good | 88–90% | B+ |
| 2.00 | Good | 85–87% | B |
| 2.25 | Good | 82–84% | B |
| 2.50 | Satisfactory | 79–81% | B− |
| 2.75 | Satisfactory | 76–78% | C+ |
| 3.00 | Passing | 74–75% | C |
| 5.00 | Failed | Below 74% | F |
Note: Percentage equivalents vary slightly between universities. Some schools use a 4.00 failing grade instead of 5.00, and some include intermediate grades like 4.00 (Conditional Failure) or INC (Incomplete).
How Weighted GPA Is Computed
The Weighted GPA accounts for the number of credit units each subject carries. Subjects with more units (e.g., laboratory courses at 3 units) have a greater impact on your GPA than minor subjects (1 unit). The formula is:
Example: If you have Mathematics (Grade 1.50, 3 units), English (Grade 1.75, 3 units), and PE (Grade 1.25, 2 units), your weighted GPA = (1.50×3 + 1.75×3 + 1.25×2) ÷ (3+3+2) = (4.50 + 5.25 + 2.50) ÷ 8 = 12.25 ÷ 8 = 1.5313.
Latin Honors Requirements in Philippine Universities
Latin honors are awarded to graduating students who maintain an exceptional GPA throughout their college years. While thresholds vary by school, the most common requirements are:
| Distinction | General GPA Range | Other Common Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Summa Cum Laude | 1.00 – 1.20 | No grade lower than 2.00; no failed subjects; no incomplete grades |
| Magna Cum Laude | 1.21 – 1.45 | No grade lower than 2.50; completed at least 75% of units at the school |
| Cum Laude | 1.46 – 1.75 | No grade lower than 3.00; at least 2 years enrolled at the school |
Requirements vary significantly between institutions. Always check your school's official Academic Policies. State universities (e.g., UP, PUP) and private universities (e.g., DLSU, ADMU) have slightly different criteria.
GPA Requirements for Common Scholarships
- CHED Merit Scholarship: Minimum GPA of 1.75 for the previous semester
- DOST-SEI Scholarship: Minimum GPA of 2.00 per semester, no grade below 3.00
- State University Scholarships: Typically 1.75–2.00 minimum GPA
- Dean's List: Usually top 10% of the class or GPA of 1.00–1.50, depending on the school
Frequently Asked Questions — Philippine GPA
Why does the Philippines use 1.0 as the highest grade and 5.0 as failing?
The Philippine grading system was adopted from the Spanish educational system during the colonial period, where 1 was the best rank. This is the opposite of the American 4.0 GPA scale. When the US established schools during the American colonial period, they introduced their own grading conventions, but many Philippine universities retained the Spanish-derived numbering. Today both systems coexist — some schools (like AMA, Mapua) use a 4.0 scale while most state universities use the 1.0–5.0 scale.
How do I convert my Philippine GPA to a 4.0 scale for international applications?
The most commonly used conversion formula is: 4.0 Scale Grade = 4.0 − (PH Grade − 1.0) × (4.0 / 4.0). A simpler approach: Grade 1.00 ≈ 4.0, Grade 1.50 ≈ 3.7, Grade 2.00 ≈ 3.3, Grade 2.50 ≈ 2.7, Grade 3.00 ≈ 2.0. For official conversions (e.g., graduate school abroad), consult the World Education Services (WES) or your target university's admissions office.
Does an INC (Incomplete) grade affect my GPA in the Philippines?
An INC (Incomplete) grade is a temporary mark given when a student fails to complete all requirements. It is not counted in GPA computation until resolved. If the INC is not completed within the deadline (usually one semester), it is automatically converted to 5.00 (Failed), which would then count in GPA computation and disqualify the student from honor rolls.
Can I still qualify for Latin honors if I failed a subject?
Generally, no. Most Philippine universities disqualify students from Latin honors if they have any failed grade (5.00) in any subject during their entire college enrollment, even if it was retaken and passed. Some schools also disqualify students who have dropped subjects more than once. Check your specific institution's honor requirements carefully.
How are PE and NSTP subjects handled in GPA computation?
This varies by institution. Most universities include PE (Physical Education) and NSTP (National Service Training Program) grades in GPA computation since they carry credit units. Some schools designate these as "pass/fail" subjects that do not affect GPA. Subjects marked with "INC," "W" (Withdrawn), or "P/F" (Pass/Fail) are typically excluded from weighted GPA calculations.