GPA Calculation at Baylor University
At Baylor, your Grade Point Average (GPA) is the number that reflects your academic performance across courses. It’s calculated using a 4.0 scale, meaning each letter grade corresponds to a specific number of grade points.
The GPA is calculated using the formula:
GPA = Total Grade Points Earned ÷ Total Credit Hours Attempted (graded courses only)
Courses taken Pass/Fail, Incomplete, or Withdrawn do not count in the GPA calculation.
Baylor’s Grade Scale
Here’s how Baylor translates letter grades into grade points:
| Letter Grade | Grade Points |
|---|---|
| A | 4.0 |
| A− | 3.67 |
| B+ | 3.33 |
| B | 3.0 |
| B− | 2.67 |
| C+ | 2.33 |
| C | 2.0 |
| C− | 1.67 |
| D+ | 1.33 |
| D | 1.0 |
| D− | 0.67 |
| F | 0.0 |
Note: A grade of F (Fail) earns 0.0 points and negatively impacts your GPA.
Pass/Fail and Repeated Courses
- Pass/Fail Courses: If you choose this option, a grade of “P” (Pass) earns no grade points and doesn’t affect your GPA. However, an “F” (Fail) still counts as 0.0 in your GPA.
- Repeated Courses: Baylor uses the most recent grade earned in a repeated course when recalculating your GPA—even if the new grade is lower.
Academic Standing and Honors
Your GPA affects:
- Academic Probation: Students whose cumulative GPA drops below 2.0 are placed on probation.
- Dean’s List: Usually requires a GPA of 3.7+ in at least 12 graded semester hours.
- Graduation Honors:
- Cum Laude: 3.70–3.89
- Magna Cum Laude: 3.90–3.94
- Summa Cum Laude: 3.95–4.00
These are based on your final Baylor GPA only—not transfer grades.
Departmental or Program-Specific GPA Rules
Some colleges or majors within Baylor University may have more selective GPA requirements. For example:
- Pre-health and Nursing: Often expect a 3.0 or higher GPA in prerequisite science and math courses.
- Business Majors: Admission to upper-level business courses may require a minimum GPA, typically around 3.0.
Always consult your academic advisor or departmental handbook for the most specific rules.
Useful GPA Tools and Support
Baylor offers GPA calculators via BearWeb (Baylor’s student portal) so you can project your semester or cumulative GPA based on current or anticipated grades. Additionally, the Paul L. Foster Success Center offers tutoring and academic coaching for students looking to boost their performance.