Understanding GPA at Clemson University
Clemson uses a standard 4.0 GPA scale, just like many other U.S. universities. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t any unique twists. At Clemson, the GPA is calculated using quality points assigned to letter grades, and each grade you earn in a course directly contributes to your overall GPA.
You’ll see both a Semester GPA and a Cumulative GPA on your academic record. Clemson does not round up GPA values—what you see is what you get.
Clemson’s Grade Scale and Quality Points
Here’s how letter grades translate into GPA points at Clemson:
| Letter Grade | GPA Value (Quality Points) |
|---|---|
| A | 4.00 |
| B+ | 3.50 |
| B | 3.00 |
| C+ | 2.50 |
| C | 2.00 |
| D | 1.00 |
| F | 0.00 |
| I (Incomplete) | Not counted until resolved |
| W (Withdrawn) | Not included in GPA |
Grades like S (Satisfactory), U (Unsatisfactory), P (Pass), NP (No Pass) are used in select courses but do not impact your GPA.
How GPA Is Calculated
The formula Clemson uses:
GPA = Total Quality Points / Total Attempted Credit Hours
Example:
- You take 4 classes (3 credits each).
- You earn: A (4.0), B+ (3.5), C (2.0), and B (3.0).
- GPA = (4.03 + 3.53 + 2.03 + 3.03) ÷ (3+3+3+3) = 12 + 10.5 + 6 + 9 = 37.5 ÷ 12 = 3.13 GPA
Repeated Courses Policy
Clemson allows undergraduates to repeat up to 3 courses (or 10 credit hours) for grade forgiveness. The new grade replaces the old one in GPA calculations, but the old grade remains on your transcript with a note.
Grade forgiveness must be requested and approved—it doesn’t happen automatically.
Departmental GPA Policies
While the general GPA system is consistent across the university, some programs (like Engineering or Nursing) have higher GPA requirements for progression or graduation. Here are a few examples:
- Engineering: Must maintain a 2.0 GPA in core courses.
- Education majors: Often need a 2.75 GPA to move into the professional level.
- Nursing: May require C or better in all major courses and a minimum GPA of 2.75.
Check with your department for specific standards.
Academic Standing
Here’s what you need to know about staying in good shape:
- Good Standing: Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Academic Probation: GPA falls below 2.0
- Academic Suspension: After consecutive semesters of low GPA performance (specific thresholds vary by credit level)
Honors and Dean’s List
- President’s List: 4.0 GPA for at least 12 credit hours
- Dean’s List: 3.5–3.99 GPA for at least 12 credit hours