GPA at the University of Miami: How It Works
Whether you’re aiming for the President’s Honor Roll or just trying to keep your scholarship, understanding how GPA is calculated at the University of Miami (a.k.a. UM or The U) is key. The grading system follows a pretty standard 4.0 scale, but there are a few unique things to keep in mind if you want to stay on top of your academic game.
UM’s Grading Scale
| Letter Grade | Grade Points (GPA) |
|---|---|
| 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 |
A few other grades you might see on your transcript but that do not impact your GPA include:
- W (Withdrawal)
- I (Incomplete)
- CR/NC (Credit/No Credit for select pass/fail courses)
How Your GPA Is Calculated
To calculate your GPA at UM, follow this basic formula:
GPA = Total Grade Points Earned ÷ Total Credit Hours Attempted (for GPA-bearing courses)
Each course’s credit hours are multiplied by the grade points for the letter grade earned. Add up all the grade points, divide by the number of credit hours, and you’ve got your term or cumulative GPA.
Example:
- 3-credit course with an A (4.0) → 12 grade points
- 3-credit course with a B+ (3.3) → 9.9 grade points
- 4-credit course with a B (3.0) → 12 grade points
Total: 33.9 grade points ÷ 10 credits = 3.39 GPA
Special Notes by Program or School
While the general GPA system is consistent across UM, some colleges within the university (like the School of Law, School of Medicine, or the Frost School of Music) may apply internal grading policies or curve systems. However, their GPAs still translate to the same 4.0 scale for official transcript purposes.
For example:
- School of Law: Uses a mandatory curve in some classes.
- Miller School of Medicine: Often uses Pass/Fail grading in early med years.
Always check your college or program’s handbook if you’re in a specialized program.
Honors and GPA Thresholds
UM recognizes academic excellence with the following Latin honors for undergraduate students:
- Cum Laude: 3.5 – 3.699 GPA
- Magna Cum Laude: 3.7 – 3.899 GPA
- Summa Cum Laude: 3.9 – 4.0 GPA
To earn honors, students must also meet residency and credit hour requirements.
Final Thoughts
At the University of Miami, your GPA is more than just a number—it’s your ticket to academic standing, scholarship eligibility, and even post-grad plans. Keep your grades up, stay in touch with your academic advisor, and always be aware of how each course impacts your standing.