What is a Semester Grade?
A Semester Grade is the final cumulative score recorded on your transcript at the end of an academic term (typically 15-18 weeks). Unlike progress reports or "Quarter" grades, semester grades are permanent and directly impact your cumulative GPA.
| Metric | Semester Grade | Quarter/Term Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 15 - 18 Weeks | 8 - 10 Weeks |
| Transcript | Permanent | Temporary / Progress |
| GPA Impact | Direct Impact | Often None |
Why it matters
Colleges primarily look at your Semester Grades. If you slack off during Quarter 1 but work hard to pull your grade up by the end of the Semester, the Semester Grade is usually the only one they see.
How to Calculate Your Semester Grade
Most schools use a Weighted Category System. This means your grade isn't just total points; it's based on the percentage weight of each category.
Find Weights
Check your syllabus. Example: Tests (40%), Homework (20%), Final (20%), Quizzes (20%).
Calculate Averages
Calculate the average score for each specific category. (e.g., Average of all tests = 90%).
Multiply & Sum
Multiply each average by its weight (e.g. 90 * 0.40) and add the totals together.
Worked Example
How to Calculate Grades Without a Final Exam
Final Not Taken Yet
You want to know your current standing based only on the work you have submitted.
Example: You have 72 weighted points, but the final (20%) is missing. You divide 72 by 0.80 to get a 90% Current Average.
No Final Exam Exists
Your class does not have a final exam.
Simply scale your other categories up. If Tests were 40%, HW 40%, and Final 20%, you might adjust Tests to 50% and HW to 50%.
Semester Grade FAQ
Common questions about semester weights and final exams.