Semester grade formula
Semester grade = (Q1 × w1 + Q2 × w2 + Final × w3) ÷ (w1 + w2 + w3)
Score needed on final = (target × total weight − points so far) ÷ final weight
Worked example
With 88% in the first quarter and 91% in the second (40% each) and 85% on the final (20%), the semester grade is (88 × 40 + 91 × 40 + 85 × 20) ÷ 100 = 88.6%, a B+.
Want a 90% instead? Leave the final empty: you'd need (90 × 100 − 88 × 40 − 91 × 40) ÷ 20 = 92% on the final.
Common semester weightings
| Quarter 1 | Quarter 2 | Final exam |
|---|
| 40% | 40% | 20% |
| 45% | 45% | 10% |
| 37.5% | 37.5% | 25% |
| 35% | 35% | 30% |
Only need the final exam score? The final grade calculator does just that. To turn semester grades into a GPA, use the high school GPA calculator or the college GPA calculator.
Last reviewed October 2026.
Frequently asked questions
How is a semester grade calculated?
Most schools combine two quarter (or term) grades with a final exam, each with a set weight. A common split is 40% for each quarter and 20% for the final. Multiply each grade by its weight, add them up and divide by the total weight.
What if my school uses different weights?
Just change the weights. Some schools use 45/45/10, others 40/40/20 or 37.5/37.5/25. The weights don't have to add up to 100; the calculator divides by their total.
Can I find the score I need on the final?
Yes. Leave the final exam grade empty and enter the semester grade you want. The calculator works out the final exam score you need to reach it.
What letter grade scale does this use?
It uses a common U.S. scale: 93+ A, 90–92 A−, 87–89 B+, 83–86 B, 80–82 B−, and so on down to below 60 for an F. Your school's scale may differ, so check your syllabus.
Can I add more parts, like a midterm?
Yes. Use "Add part" to include midterms, projects or a third term, each with its own weight.