What is the Difference Between GPA and CGPA?

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The main difference between GPA (Grade Point Average) and CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) lies in the duration of time they measure and the scale they are calculated on. Here are the key differences:

  • Duration: GPA measures the performance of a single unit or semester, while CGPA accumulates the total marks and calculates the overall performance throughout the course, including all units and semesters.
  • Scale: CGPA is calculated on a 10-point scale, while GPA is calculated on a 4.0-point scale.

Both GPA and CGPA are used to assess a student's academic performance, but they serve different purposes:

  • GPA is essential for applying for admissions abroad, extracurricular clubs, or organizations, as it reflects the performance in a specific semester or over a span of time.
  • CGPA is more important in terms of placements and gives a clearer picture of a student's overall academic performance throughout the course.

A good GPA and CGPA are crucial for various reasons, such as applying for higher studies programs, scholarships, and placements. To obtain a high CGPA, a student must perform exceptionally well in all semesters and maintain a consistent GPA.

Comparative Table: GPA vs CGPA

The main difference between GPA (Grade Point Average) and CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) is that GPA measures the performance of a single unit or semester, while CGPA measures the overall academic performance of a student throughout the course. Here is a table comparing the two:

Aspect GPA CGPA
Meaning Represents the grades obtained by a student in a single semester or unit. Represents the average of all grades obtained by a student over multiple terms or semesters.
Time Period Semester or unit-specific. Course-specific, measuring performance throughout the entire course.
Grade Points Utilizes grades like A, B, C, D, or E. Utilizes grade points commonly from 1 to 10, bifurcated across a particular range of marks.

To convert CGPA to GPA, you can use the following conversion table for a 10-point CGPA scale:

CGPA (10 Point) GPA (4 Point) Grade (4 Point Scale)
>8.5 >3.7 A
8.0 – 8.4 3.7 A
7.5 – 7.9 3.3 B+
7.0 – 7.4 3.0 B
6.5 – 6.9 2.7 C+
6.0 – 6.4 2.3 C
5.5 – 5.9 2.0 D+
5.0 – 5.4 1.7 D
<5.0 0 – 1.3 F

Please note that this conversion table is for reference purposes only, and third-party agencies may handle conversions for official purposes.