Calculating GPA for Penn State University Admissions

I'm about to apply to Penn State University but I'm struggling to understand how they calculate GPA for admissions purposes. Can someone help me figure this out or point me to a GPA calculator specific to this university? It would really help my confidence when applying. Thanks!

Penn State University utilizes a weighted 4.0 scale when evaluating GPA for admissions purposes. Here's how to calculate your GPA according to Penn State's system:

1. First, identify which of your classes are considered honors, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB). Classes that do not fall under these categories will be treated as regular or unweighted courses.

2. Assign grade points to your classes based on the Penn State system:

- Regular courses: A = 4.0, B = 3.0, C = 2.0, D = 1.0, F = 0

- Honors courses: Add 0.5 points to the grade points for regular courses (e.g., A = 4.5, B = 3.5)

- AP/IB courses: Add 1 point to the grade points for regular courses (e.g., A = 5.0, B = 4.0)

3. Calculate the sum of the grade points for all your classes. Make sure to add the extra 0.5 or 1 point for honors, AP, or IB courses as applicable.

4. Divide the total grade points by the number of classes you've taken to determine your weighted GPA on Penn State's scale.

To maintain accuracy and ensure that your calculations are in line with Penn State's admissions criteria, it's advisable to review their official website or contact their admissions office for any specific GPA guidelines or requirements.

It's important to remember that while GPA is a crucial part of your application, Penn State also considers other factors such as extracurricular activities, test scores (if provided), essays, and letters of recommendation, as part of their holistic application review process.

Good luck with your application to Penn State!