Understanding GPA at the University of Washington
Whether you’re a Husky in Seattle, Bothell, or Tacoma, GPA plays a key role in your academic progress. At the University of Washington, your GPA (Grade Point Average) is calculated on a 4.0 scale, and only graded courses (not pass/fail or credit/no credit) are factored into your quarterly and cumulative GPA.
How GPA is Calculated
To calculate GPA at UW:
- Multiply the grade points for each course by the number of credits.
- Add the total grade points.
- Divide the total grade points by the total graded credits.
Courses that are graded as “Satisfactory/Not Satisfactory” (S/NS), “Credit/No Credit” (CR/NC), or withdrawn (W) do not impact your GPA.
Grade Scale at UW
Here’s the standard grade conversion scale used at UW for most undergraduate courses:
| Letter Grade | Numerical Grade (GPA) |
|---|---|
| A | 4.0 – 3.9 |
| A– | 3.8 – 3.5 |
| B+ | 3.4 – 3.2 |
| B | 3.1 – 2.9 |
| B– | 2.8 – 2.5 |
| C+ | 2.4 – 2.2 |
| C | 2.1 – 1.9 |
| C– | 1.8 – 1.5 |
| D+ | 1.4 – 1.2 |
| D | 1.1 – 0.9 |
| D– | 0.8 – 0.7 (lowest passing) |
| E (Fail) | 0.0 |
Note: UW uses numerical grades to the tenths and hundredths place (e.g., 3.7, 2.8), so instructors can assign grades with more nuance than just the letter scale.
Special Grading Notes
- Minimum GPA for Good Standing: 2.0 cumulative GPA.
- Grade of 0.7 is the lowest passing grade for credit.
- Grades below 0.7 are recorded as 0.0 and do not earn credit.
Departmental GPA Policies
While the GPA scale is consistent, some departments and professional schools at UW have their own expectations:
Example Differences:
| College/School | GPA Requirement or Policy |
|---|---|
| Foster School of Business | Competitive majors often require a 3.5+ GPA for admission. |
| College of Engineering | Direct-to-major admits must maintain strong STEM GPAs. |
| School of Nursing | Requires a minimum 2.8 GPA in prerequisite courses. |
| College of Education | Often requires 3.0 GPA for grad program eligibility. |
Always check with your academic advisor or departmental website, especially if you’re applying to a competitive major or program.
Honors and Distinctions
If you’re aiming for the Dean’s List or graduation honors, here’s what UW looks for:
- Dean’s List: Quarterly GPA of 3.5 or higher, full-time status.
- Graduation with Honors:
- Cum Laude: 3.50 – 3.69
- Magna Cum Laude: 3.70 – 3.89
- Summa Cum Laude: 3.90 – 4.00