How GPA Works at Iowa State University
At Iowa State, your grade point average (GPA) is a snapshot of your academic performance, measured on a 4.0 scale. It’s calculated every semester and cumulatively across your entire academic record. Whether you’re aiming for the Dean’s List or just trying to stay in good standing, understanding the GPA formula is key.
GPA Formula
To calculate your GPA at Iowa State, use this formula:
GPA = Total Grade Points Earned / Total Credit Hours Attempted
Grade points are earned by multiplying the numerical value of the grade (see table below) by the number of credit hours for the course. Then, add up all the grade points and divide by the total number of credit hours attempted.
ISU Grade Scale
Here’s how Iowa State converts letter grades into grade points:
| Letter Grade | Grade Points |
|---|---|
| A | 4.00 |
| A− | 3.67 |
| B+ | 3.33 |
| B | 3.00 |
| B− | 2.67 |
| C+ | 2.33 |
| C | 2.00 |
| C− | 1.67 |
| D+ | 1.33 |
| D | 1.00 |
| D− | 0.67 |
| F | 0.00 |
Grades like P (Pass), NP (Not Pass), I (Incomplete), and W (Withdrawn) don’t count toward your GPA.
Special Notes for Students
- Repeated Courses: If you retake a course, only the most recent grade is used in GPA calculations—unless a prior course has been designated as non-repeatable.
- Pass/Not Pass Option: These grades don’t affect your GPA, but you’ll still earn credit if you pass.
- Satisfactory Academic Progress: Most programs expect at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA to stay in good standing.
- Dean’s List: You need at least a 3.50 GPA with 12 graded credits in a term to be eligible.
Departmental GPA Policies
While Iowa State applies the same grading scale university-wide, some colleges have additional academic expectations. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| College or Program | Minimum GPA Requirement |
|---|---|
| College of Engineering | 2.00 GPA to remain in good standing; 3.00+ for some major declarations |
| Ivy College of Business | 2.50 GPA for admission into upper-division major courses |
| College of Design | Portfolio review may impact progression despite GPA |
| Teacher Education Program | 2.50 GPA minimum for admission |
Be sure to check your college’s specific requirements if you’re in a specialized or competitive program.