Understanding GPA at IU Bloomington
At Indiana University Bloomington, your Grade Point Average (GPA) is the number that tells the story of your academic performance. IU uses the standard 4.0 GPA scale, and each letter grade you earn is converted to a numeric value. Your semester and cumulative GPAs are calculated by averaging these values, weighted by credit hours.
IU Bloomington GPA / Grade Scale
Here’s how letter grades are converted into GPA points at IU Bloomington:
| Letter Grade | Grade Points |
|---|---|
| A+ | 4.0 |
| A | 4.0 |
| A− | 3.7 |
| B+ | 3.3 |
| B | 3.0 |
| B− | 2.7 |
| C+ | 2.3 |
| C | 2.0 |
| C− | 1.7 |
| D+ | 1.3 |
| D | 1.0 |
| D− | 0.7 |
| F | 0.0 |
Note: A+ and A are both worth 4.0 points. There’s no GPA bonus for an A+—but it sure feels nice.
How GPA Is Calculated
To calculate your GPA at IU Bloomington:
- Multiply each course grade’s point value by the number of credit hours the course is worth.
- Add up all the grade points you earned.
- Divide the total grade points by the total number of credit hours you attempted (excluding pass/fail, W, or I grades).
Example:
| Course | Credit Hours | Grade | Grade Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology | 3 | A | 3 × 4.0 = 12.0 |
| Chemistry | 4 | B+ | 4 × 3.3 = 13.2 |
| English | 3 | B | 3 × 3.0 = 9.0 |
| History | 3 | C+ | 3 × 2.3 = 6.9 |
Total Grade Points: 41.1
Total Credit Hours: 13
GPA = 41.1 ÷ 13 = 3.16
Special Grades and Their Impact
- P/F (Pass/Fail): Pass earns credit but doesn’t affect GPA; Fail counts as 0.0.
- I (Incomplete): Doesn’t count until resolved.
- W (Withdrawn): No impact on GPA, but remains on transcript.
- FN (Failure due to Non-Attendance): Counts as an F (0.0) and hits your GPA hard.
Departmental Grading Differences
Most undergraduate programs at IU Bloomington follow the same GPA scale. However, professional schools like Kelley School of Business, Jacobs School of Music, or School of Education may have additional GPA benchmarks or academic probation rules. It’s a good idea to check with your advisor or department website for any special policies.
GPA Tools & Honors
- GPA Calculator: Use IU’s online GPA calculator to predict your semester results.
- Dean’s List: You need at least a 3.7 GPA for 12+ credit hours with no grades below C.
- Graduation Honors:
- Distinction: GPA of 3.7–3.79
- High Distinction: 3.8–3.89
- Highest Distinction: 3.9+