How GPA Works at NYU
At New York University, your GPA—or Grade Point Average—is a numeric representation of your academic performance. NYU uses a 4.0 scale, and each letter grade corresponds to a point value that factors into your overall GPA. Every graded class you take contributes to this average, weighted by the number of credits for each course.
GPA is recalculated each semester and cumulatively, and it’s an essential metric for academic standing, scholarships, and honors.
NYU Grade Scale
Here’s a handy table showing how letter grades translate into GPA points at NYU:
| Letter Grade | GPA Value |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| F | 0.0 |
| P (Pass) | Not included in GPA |
| W (Withdrawn) | Not included in GPA |
| I (Incomplete) | Becomes F if not resolved |
Courses taken as Pass/Fail (P/F) may count toward your degree but not your GPA—unless a failing grade (F) is received.
GPA Calculation Example
Let’s say you took these 4 courses:
- Biology (4 credits) = A (4.0)
- History (3 credits) = B+ (3.3)
- Writing (3 credits) = B (3.0)
- Math (4 credits) = C+ (2.3)
Multiply each grade point by the course’s credit hours:
- Biology: 4.0 × 4 = 16.0
- History: 3.3 × 3 = 9.9
- Writing: 3.0 × 3 = 9.0
- Math: 2.3 × 4 = 9.2
Add the total grade points: 16.0 + 9.9 + 9.0 + 9.2 = 44.1
Total credits attempted: 4 + 3 + 3 + 4 = 14
GPA = 44.1 ÷ 14 = 3.15
School and Program Differences
Some NYU schools and programs have slight differences in grading policies. For instance:
| School | Unique Policies |
|---|---|
| College of Arts & Science | Standard 4.0 scale applies |
| Stern School of Business | Uses same GPA scale but has strict curve guidelines for core courses |
| Tisch School of the Arts | Grades heavily depend on creative performance; P/F options more common |
| School of Law | Uses a 4.3 scale where A+ = 4.3 (unlike other schools at NYU) |
| Graduate School of Arts & Science | Generally requires a minimum 3.0 GPA to stay in good standing |
Always check with your specific department or school within NYU, as grading and GPA standards can vary slightly across programs.
Academic Standing & Honors
- Dean’s List: Requires a GPA of at least 3.65 for the semester (varies by school).
- Graduation Honors:
- Cum Laude: 3.50–3.69
- Magna Cum Laude: 3.70–3.84
- Summa Cum Laude: 3.85–4.00