Understanding the GPA System at UChicago
The University of Chicago is famously rigorous, with a strong emphasis on intellectual challenge. While some classes may feel like they’re built to test your philosophical stamina, the GPA system is actually pretty straightforward.
At UChicago, grades are typically awarded on a 4.0 scale, though there are a few unique things to know (such as optional Pass/Fail options and narrative evaluations in some cases). Most undergrad and grad programs follow the traditional letter-grade model unless otherwise specified.
Grade Scale Table
Here’s how letter grades correspond to GPA points at the University of Chicago:
| 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 |
Grades like P (Pass) or N (No Credit) are not factored into your GPA. Pass/Fail options are available for some courses, but you’ll need to meet certain conditions and deadlines to elect that grading method.
How GPA Is Calculated
To calculate your GPA at UChicago:
- Multiply the GPA value of each course grade by the number of credit hours for that course.
- Add all the grade points together.
- Divide by the total number of credit hours you attempted (excluding Pass/Fail and audited courses).
Example:
- A in a 3-credit course = 4.0 × 3 = 12.0
- B+ in a 4-credit course = 3.3 × 4 = 13.2
- C in a 3-credit course = 2.0 × 3 = 6.0
- Total grade points = 31.2
- Total credits = 10
- GPA = 31.2 ÷ 10 = 3.12
Faculty or Departmental Grading Differences
While the GPA scale remains consistent across most of the university, grading culture can vary a lot by department:
- Humanities and Social Sciences: These departments often assign writing-heavy coursework. Grades can be more subjective, and some professors use narrative evaluations.
- STEM: Known for their difficult problem sets and exams, grading may be more curve-based in departments like Math, Physics, and Chemistry.
- The College (undergraduate division): Follows a standard GPA system, but allows some flexibility in grading options (e.g., Pass/Fail).
Graduate programs, such as the Booth School of Business or the Law School, may have their own unique grading policies.
Other Grading Notes
- Pass/Fail Limitations: You can take a limited number of courses Pass/Fail, but not for Core or major requirements.
- No Grade Inflation Reputation: UChicago is known for maintaining tough grading standards compared to peer institutions.
- Transcripts: Your GPA does not appear on your transcript by default. However, it is calculated internally and often required for grad school applications or scholarships.