How does Pitt's GPA scale work?

Hey everyone, I'm a junior looking into Pitt and I'm a bit confused about their GPA scaling system. How do they weigh different classes when computing GPA? Any insiders' tip on how it affects college admissions would also be appreciated. Thanks a bunch!

Hi there! Like many universities, the University of Pittsburgh, or Pitt as it's commonly called, uses their own specific method of calculating GPA for their admissions process. Let's break it down:

First, grades from your high school transcript are converted to a 4.0 scale (if they aren't already). In general, an A is 4.0, a B is 3.0, a C is 2.0, and a D is 1.0.

After that, they add extra points for weighted classes. The exact amount can vary, but typically advanced courses (like honors, AP, or IB) might get an extra .5 or 1 point added to the regular grade points. This means that an A in one of these classes could have a weight of 4.5 or 5.0 points, depending on the exact system Pitt uses.

So, if you're taking more challenging classes, your weighted GPA might be higher than your unweighted GPA.

Remember to also consider the context of your transcript. Even though GPA is very important, universities like Pitt are looking for students who challenge themselves academically, so course rigor is also a key factor.

If you have high grades in challenging courses, it can help demonstrate your dedication and ability to handle college-level coursework, which can give you an edge in the admissions process. As always, you'll want to pair a strong GPA with impressive extracurricular activities and a well-crafted application essay to truly shine. Good luck with your college journey!