Unweighted GPA: Definition and impact on college applications

I'm trying to understand what an unweighted GPA is and how it differs from a weighted GPA. How do colleges view unweighted GPAs in the admissions process? Does it really matter in the long run?

An unweighted GPA is a straightforward calculation of your grades, typically following a scale where an A is a 4.0, a B is a 3.0, and so on, regardless of the difficulty of the courses taken. On this scale, the highest GPA you can achieve is a 4.0.

In contrast, a weighted GPA accounts for the complexity of courses, assigning higher values to grades in more challenging classes, such as honors, AP, or IB courses. As a result, it's possible to have a weighted GPA above a 4.0 if you take these advanced classes and do well in them.

In the college admissions process, both types of GPA are evaluated, but in different ways. Many schools will look at both your unweighted and weighted GPA to compare your performance against their accepted student profile. They'll also consider the rigor of your coursework when looking at your weighted GPA.

However, some colleges recalculate GPAs using their own system for standardization when comparing applicants from different schools. They might implement an unweighted scale to ensure that students are assessed on an equal footing, placing a separate but less significant emphasis on course rigor.

To answer your final question, your unweighted GPA does matter, as it provides a more straightforward reflection of your academic performance without the "boost" that advanced classes give in a weighted system. It lets colleges observe your consistent performance across different subjects. However, remember that your GPA - either weighted or unweighted - is just one element in the admissions process, alongside your standardized test scores, your essay, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities.