Final Grade Calculator

How the calculation works

Your course grade is your current grade times the share of the course already marked, plus your final score times the final's weight. Rearranged, the score you need is (target − current × (1 − weight)) ÷ weight, with the weight written as a decimal.

For example, if you have 75% so far, the final is worth 50% and you want 80% overall, you need (80 − 75 × 0.5) ÷ 0.5 = 85% on the final.

Results above 100% or below 0%

A result over 100% means the final alone can't get you to your target; the calculator shows the best grade still possible. A result under 0% means you've already reached it.

Some courses also set a minimum mark you must get in the final, whatever your overall grade. Look for any "hurdle" requirement in your course outline.

Three quick examples

Here's how the formula works for common goals:

• Passing with 50%: you're on 42% and the final counts for 40%. You need (50 − 42 × 0.6) ÷ 0.4 = 62%.
• Reaching a B (80%): you're on 74% and the final counts for 35%. You need (80 − 74 × 0.65) ÷ 0.35 = 91.1%.
• Holding an A (90%): you're on 92% and the final counts for 25%. You need (90 − 92 × 0.75) ÷ 0.25 = 84%.

Finding your current grade when categories are weighted

Lots of courses split marks into categories, for example labs 15%, assignments 25% and a midterm 20%, with the final worth the other 40%. Your current grade is each category average times its weight, added together and divided by the weight marked so far.

With labs at 88%, assignments at 76% and a midterm at 70%, that's (88 × 15 + 76 × 25 + 70 × 20) ÷ 60 = 77%. Enter 77% as your current grade and 40% for the final.

Converting letter grades and pass marks

Everything here is in percentages, so turn a letter grade into the percentage at the bottom of its band. Many US and Canadian courses start an A at 90%, a B at 80% and a C at 70%, though your syllabus may differ. Australian and New Zealand courses usually pass at 50%, and UK university modules at 40%.

Graded in points? Divide the points you've earned by the points available so far, and use that as your current grade.

Using your remaining time well

When the final counts for a lot, focus on the topics that come up most and practise past papers against the clock. If you still have coursework to hand in, that's often where marks are easier to pick up.

Our guide to managing university deadlines shows how to fit revision around assignments. Students in New Zealand and beyond use our assignment help for the coursework still ahead.