A GPA of all F's is 0.0.
Understanding Grade Point Average (GPA)
Your Grade Point Average (GPA) is a numerical representation of your academic performance. It is calculated by assigning a quality point equivalent (QPE) to each letter grade you receive in a course. These QPEs typically range from 4.0 for an A to 0.0 for an F. The total quality points earned are then divided by the total credit hours for all courses included in the GPA calculation.
The Impact of an 'F' Grade on Your GPA
An 'F' grade signifies a failing mark in a course. On the standard grading scale, an 'F' has a quality point equivalent of 0.0.
Consider the following typical quality point equivalents:
| Letter Grade | Quality Point Equivalent (QPE) |
|---|---|
| A | 4.0 |
| B | 3.0 |
| C | 2.0 |
| D | 1.0 |
| F | 0.0 |
When a student receives an 'F' in all their courses that count towards their GPA, the calculation is straightforward:
- For every course, the quality points earned will be 0 (since QPE for F is 0.0, and any credit hours multiplied by 0 equals 0).
- Summing all these 0 quality points results in a total quality point count of 0.
- Dividing this total of 0 quality points by the total credit hours attempted will always yield a GPA of 0.0.
Therefore, an academic record consisting entirely of 'F' grades will result in the lowest possible GPA, which is 0.0.
Grades Not Included in GPA Calculation
It's important to note that not all course marks are factored into your GPA. Certain designations indicate that a course does not contribute to your grade point average. These can include:
- CR (Credit)
- I (Incomplete)
- IPG (In Progress)
- P (Pass)
- NP (No Pass)
- W (Withdrawal)
- Z (Audit)
These marks typically do not carry quality points and are excluded from GPA calculations, meaning they do not raise or lower your GPA. Only courses with traditional letter grades (A through F) are considered in determining your grade point average.
