Calculate GPA ( GPA: grade point average ) is a raw score average based on the letter grades you make each semester. Each letter grade is assigned a numerical value from 0-4 or 5 points, depending on your institutions scale. Schools also look at cumulative GPAs when you apply to college or graduation. Unfortunately there is no universal way to calculate GPA. Indeed, GPA calculation methods vary by country and by institution, as some give extra points for honors classes, and some weigh scores by units. However, with the basics and a few of the more common GPA calculation methods, you can hopefully get a fair idea of your GPA.