GPA at Arizona State University: How It Works
Arizona State University (ASU) uses the 4.0 GPA scale, like most U.S. universities, but it adds its own structure and policies that students need to know. Whether you’re aiming for the Dean’s List or just trying to keep your scholarship, understanding how your grades become a GPA is key.
The ASU Grade Scale
Every letter grade you earn is tied to a grade point value. ASU does not assign plus or minus modifiers in GPA calculations. That means a B+ or B− will show up as a plain B in your GPA math. Here’s how it breaks down:
| Letter Grade | Grade Points |
|---|---|
| A | 4.00 |
| B | 3.00 |
| C | 2.00 |
| D | 1.00 |
| E (Fail) | 0.00 |
| EN (Failure – Never Participated) | 0.00 |
| EU (Failure – Stopped Attending) | 0.00 |
| W (Withdrawn) | Not calculated |
| P/Z/Y/X | Not calculated |
Grades like W, P, Z, Y, and X are non-graded outcomes or pass/fail types and do not impact GPA.
How GPA is Calculated
ASU calculates your GPA by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of GPA-credit hours attempted.
Example:
If you take 4 classes with the following grades:
- English 101 (3 credits): A = 3 x 4.0 = 12.0
- Math 142 (3 credits): B = 3 x 3.0 = 9.0
- Psychology 101 (3 credits): C = 3 x 2.0 = 6.0
- History 100 (3 credits): D = 3 x 1.0 = 3.0
Total GPA points = 30.0
Total credit hours = 12
GPA = 30.0 ÷ 12 = 2.50
Special Grades and Notations
- EN: You never participated in the class at all.
- EU: You stopped attending but didn’t officially withdraw.
- I (Incomplete): Temporary grade, not factored into GPA until resolved.
- W (Withdrawal): No effect on GPA but can affect academic progress.
Department or College Variations
ASU does not typically vary its GPA scale across colleges (e.g., Engineering vs. Liberal Arts). However, academic standards for probation, dismissal, and honors may differ by college. For example:
- Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering requires a 2.00 minimum GPA in the major.
- Barrett, The Honors College often expects a 3.25+ GPA to maintain status.
- Some colleges may also require a C or better for major courses—even though D is technically passing.
It’s smart to check your college or program handbook for specifics.
GPA Requirements to Watch
- Good Standing: Cumulative GPA ≥ 2.00
- Dean’s List: Semester GPA ≥ 3.50, with at least 12 graded hours
- Graduation: Most majors require a 2.00 cumulative GPA and often a 2.00 major GPA
- Academic Probation: Cumulative GPA below 2.00