SGPA vs. Percentage: which is more important?

SGPA and Percentage, both, are important grading systems to measure the academic performance of students. Usually, institutions use one of them according to their convenience and educational practices. Sometimes, students are required to convert their academic score from one system to another while applying for other institutions or jobs. But before that, it is important to know the difference and the pros and cons of each of the system.

Understanding SGPA and Percentage

Most of the universities use the GPA system. In GPA system, the grades of one semester are called SGPA while the overall performance of a degree is measured in CGPA.

However, some institutions and companies consider percentage for admissions and jobs, respectively. Because the Percentage system is the traditional and easier way to assess the caliber of a student.

SGPA vs. Percentage in Indian Universities

1. Job Applications

When applying for jobs in India, the percentage is often given more importance than SGPA. Many companies, especially those in traditional sectors, ask for percentage marks during the recruitment process. This is because the percentage system is more universally recognized and provides a straightforward comparison of academic performance across different universities and boards.

However, with the rise of multinational companies and sectors that are more attuned to global standards, SGPA is gradually gaining acceptance. Some companies have started considering SGPA, especially if the candidate explains the conversion method or provides a percentage equivalent.

Chart: Comparison of SGPA and Percentage Conversion

SGPA (10-point scale)	Equivalent Percentage
10	100%
9	90%
8	80%
7	70%
6	60%
5	50%
4	40%

2. Higher Studies

While percentage is more important for Schools and job, SGPA is important for higher education programs. Universities and colleges offering postgraduate programs often use SGPA to assess a candidate’s academic abilities. This is because SGPA provides a more detailed evaluation of a student’s performance in different subjects. Also at international level, SGPA should also be converted in international grading scale.

3. Scholarships and Grants

Some scholarships are granted on the basis of Percentage obtained in the qualifying test. While, some financial aids are totally GPA based. Both of these are decisive factors while awarding the aids to students. Percentage provides a straightforward comparison between students. However, SGPA provides the overall aptitude of the student in different other aspects as well.

When Does SGPA Matter More?

Academic Evaluation:

Universities often use SGPA to evaluate students’ performance after each semester. This helps in evaluating the progress of a student.

Higher Education:

SGPA is often used for postgraduate courses, particularly in India. It provides a more detailed assessment of academic performance.

Internal University Assessments:

Within the university, SGPA is the primary metric used for evaluating academic standing, honors, and progression to the next semester.

When Does Percentage Matter More?

Job Applications:

Many employers, especially in traditional sectors, still ask for percentage marks.

Government Exams:

Percentage is often used as a criterion for eligibility in various competitive and public service exams. It is also required for several local Government jobs in different states.

School and Pre-University Education:

The percentage remains the standard metric for evaluating academic performance in schools and pre-university programs.

Frequently Asked Question

For government jobs, the percentage is generally more important. It is the standard metric used in eligibility criteria and recruitment processes.

The conversion formula varies by university, but a common method is:

Percentage = (SGPA × 10) – 7.5.

Yes, many international universities accept SGPA, but often require a conversion to GPA or percentage.

Yes, cumulative SGPA (CGPA) is calculated by taking the weighted average of all SGPA scores across semesters.

If applying within India, especially in traditional sectors, the percentage is often better. For academic or global opportunities, SGPA may be more relevant.

Conclusion

In Indian universities, both SGPA and percentage are essential metrics for evaluating academic performance. While SGPA offers a more detailed and continuous assessment, the percentage remains the most recognized and universally accepted standard. You must understand how to convert both of them into each other. Because it is important to know where you lie in both the grading systems. And it also helps you to explore further opportunities.

For those looking to convert their SGPA to percentage effortlessly, check out our SGPA to Percentage Calculator that offers a quick and accurate way to make these calculations.