Most colleges and universities follow a credit-based grading system. Instead of percentages, they assess students using SGPA (Semester Grade Point Average) and CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average). Understanding these academic metrics is essential for students who want to track their performance or apply for further studies.
- What makes SGPA and CGPA different even though both are grade point systems?
- How do students convert SGPA or CGPA to percentage for job applications or admissions?
- What is the method behind calculating these scores accurately every semester?
Let’s break it down step-by-step. This guide helps students, parents, and working professionals understand how these grading systems work, how to calculate them, and how they differ.
What is SGPA?
SGPA stands for Semester Grade Point Average. It is used to measure a student’s academic performance in a single semester. Each subject or course is assigned a specific number of credits and grade points. The SGPA is the weighted average of those grade points.
How SGPA Works in Indian Universities
Most institutions use a 10-point scale where each letter grade (A+, A, B, etc.) has a numerical value. Each subject carries credits based on lecture hours. The grade points are then multiplied by the credits to find the total performance value.
Formula for SGPA:
SGPA = (Sum of Grade Points × Course Credit) / Total Credit in the Semester
Example Calculation
Let’s say a student has five subjects with credits and grades as follows:
| Subject | Credits | Grade | Grade Point |
| Maths | 4 | A | 9 |
| English | 3 | B+ | 8 |
| Physics | 4 | A+ | 10 |
| Chemistry | 3 | B | 7 |
| Computer | 2 | A | 9 |
SGPA Calculation:
= (4×9 + 3×8 + 4×10 + 3×7 + 2×9) / (4+3+4+3+2)
= (36 + 24 + 40 + 21 + 18) / 16
= 139 / 16
= 8.69
That’s how SGPA tells your semester performance in a single figure. If you need to convert your SGPA to a percentage, here’s a tool that helps.
What is CGPA?
CGPA stands for Cumulative Grade Point Average. It represents the average performance across multiple semesters. While SGPA looks at one term, CGPA summarizes your academic score throughout the course duration.
How CGPA is Calculated
CGPA is the weighted average of all SGPAs you earn in different semesters. It considers both the grade points and the credit weightage for each semester.
Formula for CGPA:
CGPA = (Sum of All Semester Grade Points × Credit) / Total Number of Credits for All Semesters
Example Calculation
Let’s assume a student has the following SGPAs over 4 semesters:
- Semester 1: SGPA = 8.2, Credits = 20
- Semester 2: SGPA = 8.5, Credits = 22
- Semester 3: SGPA = 8.0, Credits = 20
- Semester 4: SGPA = 8.7, Credits = 22
CGPA Calculation:
= (8.2×20 + 8.5×22 + 8.0×20 + 8.7×22) / (20+22+20+22)
= (164 + 187 + 160 + 191.4) / 84
= 702.4 / 84
= 8.36
So, the CGPA across all semesters is 8.36. If you need to convert your CGPA to a percentage, here’s a tool that helps.
Difference Between SGPA and CGPA
The difference lies in the time frame and purpose of both measures. While SGPA shows progress in one semester, CGPA provides an overall academic score.
Key Points of Difference
| Feature | SGPA | CGPA |
| Full Form | Semester Grade Point Average | Cumulative Grade Point Average |
| Basis | One semester | All semesters |
| Calculation | Based on subjects in one term | Based on all term results |
| Use | Internal semester evaluation | Final academic transcript |
SGPA helps monitor performance each term. CGPA is often asked for in job placements, internships, and higher studies applications.
How to Calculate SGPA and CGPA Manually
Both calculations involve weighted averages. It’s important to have accurate records of your grades and course credits.
Step-by-Step SGPA Calculation
- List down each subject with its credit and grade point.
- Multiply credit by grade point for each subject.
- Add all the products.
- Divide the total by the sum of credits.
Step-by-Step CGPA Calculation
- Take each semester’s SGPA and the corresponding total credits.
- Multiply SGPA with semester credits.
- Add the total of all such results.
- Divide by the sum of all credits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mixing grade points with marks
- Skipping credit weightage
- Using rounded-off values
Always refer to your academic guidelines for exact credit and grading rules.
Why Understanding SGPA and CGPA Matters
Knowing how to calculate SGPA and CGPA helps students plan their studies better. It also avoids confusion during applications, internships, or job placements.
Benefits for Students
- Helps track academic growth
- Required for scholarships and academic reviews
- Used in college transfers and international study programs
Educational institutions in India are increasingly moving towards transparent grading. A good understanding of these scores helps make better academic decisions.
Conclusion
SGPA and CGPA are not just numbers. They reflect consistent effort across semesters. Learning how they’re calculated gives students control over their academic path.
- SGPA is used for each semester’s performance.
- CGPA shows total academic achievement over years.
- Both can be converted into percentages using tools like Edukyu’s calculators.
- Accurate records and understanding can help avoid errors in score evaluations.
FAQs
What is SGPA in college?
SGPA is the average grade point of all subjects in a semester, considering each subject’s credit value.
How is CGPA different from SGPA?
CGPA is the average of all semester SGPAs. SGPA is for one semester only.
Why do companies ask for CGPA?
CGPA gives a consistent academic record over multiple semesters. It helps companies assess overall performance.
