GPA vs. GWA – Learn the Main Difference Between GWA And GPA
Contents
- Key Difference Between GPA and GWA
- GPA vs GWA Meaning
- Is GPA and GWA the same?
- Understanding The Difference Between GWA and GPA Calculation
- The Impact on Academic Performance: GPA vs GWA
- Making Sense of the Conversion: GPA to GWA and Vice Versa
- The Impact of GPA vs. GWA on Your Future Endeavors
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What’s the minimum GPA required for admission to top universities in the United States?
- Can a high GWA guarantee a successful career in the Philippines?
- Are there universities that consider both GPA and GWA during admissions?
- Does a low GPA or GWA mean a student is not intelligent?
- How can a student improve their GPA or GWA?
- Are there other academic performance metrics used in different countries?
- How Do You Calculate GPA and GWA?
- Conclusion
As students begin their education, they encounter many confusing acronyms and systems. Of these, GPA and GWA are the most important. They are key indicators of a student’s academic performance. Knowing the differences between these two metrics is vital. It helps with decision-making and academic success.
This article will explore the nuances of GPA vs. GWA. We will also discuss their impact on academic performance. Lastly, we will share insights from experts and credible sources. We will also introduce a GWA calculator. It will help students to compute their academic standing and set realistic goals.
Key Difference Between GPA and GWA
Students must know the difference between GWA and GPA. It’s key to managing their academic performance. GPA measures individual course grades, assessing each subject separately. GWA, on the other hand, combines all your grades into one score. It uses that to measure your overall academic performance. Think of GPA as focusing on each step. GWA shows your full educational progress. Both GPA and GWA are vital for assessing your success. Each uses a different method to reflect your achievements.
Here’s a simple table that shows the main differences between GPA and GWA
| Criteria | GWA (General Weighted Average) | GPA (Grade Point Average) |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | General Weighted Average (Philippines) | Grade Point Average (International) |
| Meaning | A method used in the Philippines to assess academic performance | A widely used system that calculates academic scores globally |
| Grading Scale | 1.00 (highest) to 5.00 (lowest) | 4.0 (highest) to 0.0 (lowest) |
| Weighting System | Considers the number of units or credit hours per subject | Typically treats each course equally |
| Calculation Formula | (Grade × Units) ÷ Total Units | (Grade Points × Credit Hours) ÷ Total Credit Hours |
| Regions of Use | Philippines | Global (USA, Canada, etc.) |
GPA vs GWA Meaning
Definition of Grade Point Average (GPA):
The GPA, or Grade Point Average, is a widely recognized metric. It is used mainly in the U.S., Canada, and Australia. It provides a standardized way to measure a student’s overall academic performance. GPA is based on a student’s letter grades and their grade points.
Definition of General Weighted Average (GWA):
GWA, or General Weighted Average, is more commonly used in the Philippines and some other Asian countries. GWA calculates your grade by combining all your subject grades, giving more weight to subjects with more units.
Is GPA and GWA the same?
Although GPA and GWA may seem similar at first glance, they represent distinct academic measures. GPA stands for “Grade Point Average,” a standardized numerical representation of a student’s average performance across all courses in a specific academic period.
On the other hand, GWA stands for “General Weighted Average,” which is a similar concept but often used in different educational systems or institutions to calculate a student’s overall performance throughout their academic journey. Both test academic achievement. But, their methods and purposes may vary. We must understand these differences. They are key to navigating education and knowing one’s academic standing.
Understanding The Difference Between GWA and GPA Calculation
GPA Calculation: A Straightforward Approach
To calculate GPA grade, each course a student takes is assigned a certain number of credit hours. These credit hours represent the amount of work and academic rigor required for the course. After completing a course, the student receives a letter grade (e.g., A, B, C, D, or F), and each letter grade corresponds to a specific grade point (e.g., A = 4.0, B = 3.0, C = 2.0, D = 1.0, and F = 0.0).
To find your GPA, use this formula:
GPA = (Total Grade Points ÷ Total Units)
To determine the average GPA, the grade points for all completed courses are added together, and then the total is divided by the sum of credit hours attempted. The result is a numerical value typically ranging from 0.0 to 4.0, with 4.0 being the highest achievable GPA.
| GPA | Letter Grade | Description |
| 4.0 | A | Excellent |
| 3.7 | A- | Very Good |
| 3.3 | B+ | Good |
| 3.0 | B | Above Average |
| 2.7 | B- | Slightly Above Average |
| 2.3 | C+ | Satisfactory |
| 2.0 | C | Average |
| 1.7 | C- | Below Average |
| 1.3 | D+ | Poor |
| 1.0 | D | Barely Passing |
GWA Calculation: A Weighted Perspective
Unlike GPA, GWA follows a weighted grading system. Each course is assigned a specific number of credit units, and alongside the letter grade, an additional weight factor comes into play. The weight factor indicates the relative importance of a particular course in a student’s academic journey.
For Calculating GWA, use this one:
GWA = (Total Grade Points ÷ Total Units)
| Grade Point | Grade Letter | Equivalence | GPA Equivalence | Description |
| 1 | A+ | 99-100% | 4.000 | Excellent |
| 1.25 | A | 96-98% | 3.625-3.999 | Good |
| 1.5 | A- | 93-95% | 3.250-3.624 | Very |
| 1.75 | B+ | 90-92% | 2.875-3.249 | Good |
| 2.0 | B | 87-89% | 2.500-2.874 | |
| 2.25 | B- | 84-86% | 2.125-2.499 | |
| 2.5 | C+ | 81-83% | 1.750-2.124 | Satisfactory |
| 2.75 | C | 78-80% | 1.375-1.749 | Pass |
| 3.0 | C- | 75.00-77.74% | 1.000-1.374 | |
| 4.0 | – | – | – | Conditional |
| 5.0 | F | Below 60% | 0.000 | Fail |
| INC | – | – | – | Incomplete |
To calculate GWA, the sum of (credit units multiplied by the grade equivalent) for all completed courses is divided by the total number of credit units completed. The resulting figure represents the GWA, which typically falls from 1.00 to 4.00, with 1.00 being the highest achievable GWA.
The Impact on Academic Performance: GPA vs GWA
GPA: Reflecting Academic Standing
GPA serves as a valuable indicator of a student’s overall academic standing and achievements. It provides insight into a student’s ability to perform well in different subjects and courses. A high GPA can open doors to various opportunities, including scholarships, internships, and admission to prestigious academic institutions.
However, the GPA system may have its limitations. It doesn’t consider the weight or difficulty level of individual courses and may not fully capture a student’s true potential. This is where GWA comes into play.
GWA: Emphasizing Course Difficulty
GWA takes into account the weight or difficulty level of each course, providing a more comprehensive view of a student’s academic performance. Courses with higher weight factors have a more substantial impact on the GWA, highlighting a student’s ability to excel in challenging subjects.
While GWA provides a more nuanced understanding of a student’s academic capabilities, some argue that it might not be as widely recognized or standardized as GPA in international settings.
Making Sense of the Conversion: GPA to GWA and Vice Versa
Converting GPA to GWA
As students explore academic opportunities abroad or apply to institutions that use the GWA system, they may need to convert their GPA to GWA. This conversion typically involves understanding the grading scales and weight factors used in the GWA calculation.
It’s essential to note that the conversion process may vary from one institution or country to another. Students should seek guidance from academic advisors or refer to official conversion tables provided by educational institutions.
Converting GWA to GPA
Converting Grade Weighted Average (GWA) to Grade Point Average (GPA) is a fundamental process in educational institutions to evaluate a student’s overall academic performance. The GWA is typically a numerical representation of a student’s average grades across all courses, factoring in the weight or credit hours assigned to each course. On the other hand, GPA is a standardized measure that converts the GWA into a common scale, allowing for easier comparison of academic achievements between students.
To perform the conversion, first, each letter grade received in different courses is assigned a specific numerical value, usually on a 4.0 scale. For instance, an “A” might correspond to 4.0, a “B” to 3.0, a “C” to 2.0, and so forth. Then, the numerical values of all the grades earned in courses are added together, and this sum is divided by the total number of credit hours or courses attempted. The resulting quotient is the GPA.
For example, if a student scored “A” (4.0) in a 3-credit course, “B+” (3.3) in a 4-credit course, and “A-” (3.7) in a 2-credit course, the total grade points would be (4.0 x 3) + (3.3 x 4) + (3.7 x 2) = 45.1. Considering the total number of credits attempted (3 + 4 + 2 = 9), the GPA would be 45.1 / 9 = 5.01.
The Impact of GPA vs. GWA on Your Future Endeavors
GPA: Global Recognition and Opportunities
As GPA is widely used in various countries, it enjoys a high level of recognition on an international scale. Many universities, employers, and scholarship programs around the world are familiar with the GPA system, making it easier for students to showcase their academic achievements and qualifications.
In the Philippines and some other Asian countries, GWA is the standard measure of academic performance. For students planning to pursue higher education or career opportunities locally, GWA holds significant importance.
Students need to be aware of which system (GWA vs GPA) is recognized and preferred by the institutions or employers they intend to apply to, ensuring they meet the specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the minimum GPA required for admission to top universities in the United States?
The minimum GPA required for admission to top universities in the United States varies depending on the institution and the specific program. Generally, highly competitive universities may look for GPAs above 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, while other institutions may consider GPAs closer to 3.0.
Can a high GWA guarantee a successful career in the Philippines?
While a high GWA is an excellent achievement and may open doors to more opportunities, it does not guarantee a successful career on its own. Success in one’s career also depends on various other factors, such as skills, experience, networking, and determination.
Are there universities that consider both GPA and GWA during admissions?
Yes, some universities with diverse student populations may consider both GPA and GWA during the admissions process. This allows them to assess applicants from different educational backgrounds more comprehensively.
Does a low GPA or GWA mean a student is not intelligent?
No, a low GPA or GWA does not necessarily mean a student is not intelligent. Academic performance is influenced by various factors, and some students may excel in non-academic areas or face challenges that affect their grades.
How can a student improve their GPA or GWA?
Improving GPA or GWA requires dedication, time management, seeking help from professors or tutors, and being proactive in one’s studies. Identifying areas of weakness and implementing effective study strategies can lead to better academic performance.
Are there other academic performance metrics used in different countries?
Yes, there are various academic performance metrics used worldwide, such as CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average), SGPA (Semester Grade Point Average), and CQPI (Class Quality Point Index).
How Do You Calculate GPA and GWA?
GWA is calculated by weighing grades based on credit hours and dividing by total credits. GPA uses a point system, averaging numerical values for each grade.
Conclusion
In conclusion, GWA and GPA are essential metrics that significantly assess a student’s academic performance. While GPA is widely recognized and used in many countries, GWA provides a more comprehensive view, considering the weight of individual courses. Both systems have their merits and are relevant within their respective contexts.
As students explore educational opportunities, understanding the distinction between GPA vs. GWA is vital for making informed decisions. Additionally, being aware of the specific requirements of institutions and employers can help students navigate their academic and professional paths successfully.
Remember, academic performance is just one aspect of a student’s journey. Emphasizing personal growth, acquiring valuable skills, and maintaining a thirst for knowledge are equally important on the road to success.
