How is a test grade calculated?
A points-based test percentage is points earned divided by points possible, multiplied by 100. The calculator then compares that percentage with the letter-grade cutoffs you entered.
For several assignments where total earned points are divided by total possible points, use the Percentage Grade Calculator.
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For optional supporting equipment or reference material, you can browse Study planners (paid link) on Amazon.com. Record course requirements, scores or available study time before calculating. A planner cannot establish institutional grading or credit-transfer rules. No purchase is required to use this calculator.
Why are letter-grade cutoffs editable?
There is no universal percentage-to-letter conversion used in every classroom. A 90/80/70/60 scale is common, but teachers and schools may use different thresholds, plus/minus bands or curves. Enter the cutoffs that match the grading policy you are using.
If your course uses weighted categories, the Grade Calculator is better suited to category weights.
How are points needed for the next grade calculated?
For the next higher cutoff, the calculator multiplies points possible by the cutoff percentage and subtracts your points earned. This shows the additional raw points associated with that threshold on the same test.
To estimate the score needed on a weighted final exam, use the Final Grade Calculator.
What the calculator does not model
This page does not apply a grading curve, dropped questions, partial-credit policy, bonus points added after grading, or plus/minus letter thresholds. Adjust the earned/possible points or cutoffs to reflect those rules before calculating.
For quarter, term and final components across a semester, the Semester Grade Calculator provides a dedicated weighted model.
Worked example: Test Grade
Enter the following values in the Test Grade Calculator and calculate to reproduce this result.
- Points earned: 43
- Points possible: 50
- A minimum: 90
- B minimum: 80
- C minimum: 70
- D minimum: 60
Example result: 86%. You are 2 point(s) away from the A cutoff of 90%.
Calculation used: Test percentage = points earned ÷ points possible × 100
How to interpret this example
The percentage is points earned divided by points possible. The letter threshold is a separate policy choice, not a universal grading rule. Verify whether the course rounds percentages before or after assigning a letter grade.