Grading Scales in SGPA Calculation

Most of the universities evaluate their students on the GPA grading system. The performance of each semester is calculated as SGPA while for the overall degree program, it’s measured as CGPA. But these averages are not the same for all.

Universities may use different grading scales for calculating SGPA and CGPA. Let’s explore what grading scales are commonly used for calculating SGPA and why grading scales are different? We’ll also try to understand that why institutions might choose different grading scales.

What is a Grading Scale?

A grading scale is set as a standard according to which the total grades are evaluated. All the grades are combined through a formula in a single metric to represent the performance of a student. Grading scales may change across different educational institutions and regions. Typically, they range from numerical scales to letter grades and percentage-based scales.

Why different Grading Scales are Used for the Calculation of SGPA?

The SGPA (Semester Grade Point Average) is a standard for evaluating a student in the semester system. However, the formula for calculating SGPA can be different for institutions because of the grading scales. Some institutions calculate SGPA at a 4-point scale, while some do the same at a 10-point scale. Every educational system has its unique culture and practices. Precisely, grading scales usually are different based on the need of the educational system of the institution.

Why Do Institutions Use Different Grading Scales?

Institutions use different grading scales for a variety of reasons:

Regional Differences:

Educational systems in different countries have unique requirements and practices.

Alignment with Educational Practices:

Some institutions prefer a subtle scale (e.g., 7-point) to better differentiate student performance, while others prefer a simple scale (e.g., 5-point) for clarity.

Adaptation to International Standards:

Institutions that accommodate international students adopt grading scales that align with international standards.

Advantages of Using Different Grading Scales

The use of various grading scales offers several advantages:

Adaptability with other systems:

Some institutions choose their grading scale to align with local or national standards.

Flexibility in Evaluation:

Grading scales can be personalised according to the specific need of the institution.

Easy Conversion and Comparison:

Different grading scales facilitate the conversion of grades between institutions.

Clarity for Students and Employers:

Grading scales provide clear, understandable metrics for both students and employers.

Understanding Different Grading Scales in SGPA Calculation

There are numerous scales for evaluation of SGPA but four of them are most common. These scales allow for more personalised and convenient evaluation of a student’s performance. Here is how grading scales are commonly adopted:

4-Point and 5-Point Scales: Best for broad evaluations and credit transfers.
7-Point Scale: Provides a detailed assessment that includes both high achievements and various degrees of failure.
10-Point Scale: Offers precision in grading and makes it easier to differentiate between student performances.

Grading Scale	Usage	How It Works	Formula	Example Calculation	Advantages
4-Point	United States, Canada, and parts of Asia in undergraduate programs.	Grades from A+ to F.	SGPA = (Percentage / 100) × 4	For 85% score: (85 / 100) × 4 = 3.4 SGPA	Simple and easy to understand.
5-Point	European and Asian universities in postgraduate programs.	Ranges from 1 to 5	SGPA = (Percentage / 100) × 5	For 92% score: (92 / 100) × 5 = 4.6 SGPA	Useful in fields requiring detailed evaluations.
7-Point	Denmark and certain Australian institutions.	Ranges from -3 to 12.	SGPA = (Percentage / 100) × 7	For 88% score:(88 / 100) × 7 = 6.16 SGPA	Useful in competitive academic environments.
10-Point	Indian universities for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.	Ranges from 1 to 10	SGPA = (Percentage / 100) × 10	For 76% score: (76 / 100) × 10 = 7.6 SGPA	Provides detailed gradation, allowing a clear distinction between varying levels of student achievement.

Frequently Asked Question

Yes, you can convert SGPA between grading scales, but the conversion method may vary depending on institutional guidelines. Grading scales may also be converted into each other.

It depends on the institution’s grading standards. The 4-point scale is widely accepted and simplifies credit transfers, but it may not offer the detailed differentiation that other scales provide.

The 7-point scale includes grades like -3 and 0 to account for different levels of failure, offering a comprehensive assessment.

The 7-point scale allows for more detailed differentiation between levels of achievement while still being manageable for faculty.

While many institutions have moved to GPA-based systems, percentage grading is still relevant and widely used, especially in school education.

Final Words

Do not confuse your performance with others as your institution might be evaluating you on different grading scale. Therefore, it is very important that you learn the difference between different grading scales and how institutions use them. Whether you’re a student in India using a 10-point scale or a postgraduate in Europe on a 5-point scale, you have to learn to convert your grades into each other.