How Rice University Calculates GPA
Rice University, based in Houston, Texas, uses a standard 4.0 GPA scale. Your GPA is a numerical representation of your academic performance and is calculated by converting letter grades into grade points and then averaging them based on credit hours.
Grades and GPA are reported at the end of each semester and are used for determining academic standing, honors, and eligibility for certain programs or scholarships.
Rice University GPA/Grade Scale
Here’s the official grade-to-GPA conversion chart used at Rice:
| Letter Grade | Grade Points |
|---|---|
| A+ | 4.00 |
| 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 |
Rice does not award GPA values higher than 4.00, even for A+ grades. So if you’re hoping to boost your GPA above a 4.0, keep in mind it’s capped there.
GPA Calculation Basics
Here’s how Rice calculates your GPA:
- Convert each letter grade to its numeric equivalent.
- Multiply that value by the number of credit hours for the course.
- Add up the total grade points.
- Divide by the total number of GPA-eligible credit hours.
GPA = Total Grade Points / Total GPA Hours
Courses with grades like “Pass,” “Satisfactory,” “Audit,” or “Incomplete” do not affect your GPA. Withdrawals (marked as “W”) also do not count toward GPA.
Department-Specific Grading Policies
While Rice University maintains a unified GPA system, some academic departments or schools (like Engineering or Music) may have unique grading curves or expectations. However, GPA calculation itself stays the same across the university.
Be sure to check your specific department’s handbook or advising office for grading expectations, particularly for capstone projects, studio work, or lab-based classes.
What’s Considered Good Standing?
At Rice:
- 2.00 GPA or higher = Good academic standing
- Falling below this may lead to academic probation or dismissal, depending on circumstances
To graduate, you need at least a 2.00 GPA overall and in your major.