How to convert Canadian grades to GPA

The Canadian educational system features diverse grading scales, varying by province for high secondary education and by institution for college/university levels. Below are generalized tables reflecting the main grade scales used across Canada, including variations like ‘+’ and ‘-‘ grades where applicable.

High School Grade Scale

Canada Grade Comparable English Terms Equivalent Percentage Range Approximate GPA (US 4.0 Scale)
A+ Excellent 90-100% 4.0
A Very Good 80-89% 3.7
B Good 70-79% 3.0
C Average 60-69% 2.0
D Below Average 50-59% 1.0
F Fail Below 50% 0.0

College / University Grade Scale

Canada Grade Comparable English Terms Equivalent Percentage Range GPA (on a 4-point scale)
A+ Excellent 90-100% 4.0
A Very Good 80-89% 3.7-3.9
B Good 70-79% 3.0-3.6
C Average 60-69% 2.0-2.9
D Poor 50-59% 1.0-1.9
F Fail Below 50% 0.0

Understanding Grades in Canada

Canadian grades signify a student’s academic performance with each grade level indicating specific achievements:

Canada Grade Comparison

Here’s how Canadian grades compare with grading systems in other countries, providing a global perspective on academic performance:

Canada Grade US Grade UK Grade India Grade (%) Australia Grade Canada Grade China Grade (%)
A+ (90-100%) A+ First-class Honours 75-100 HD (High Distinction) A+ 85-100
A (80-89%) A Upper Second-class 60-74 D (Distinction) A 75-84
B (70-79%) B Lower Second-class 50-59 C (Credit) B 65-74
C (60-69%) C Third-class Honours 40-49 P (Pass) C 60-64
D (50-59%) D Below 40 F (Fail) D Below 60
F (Below 50%) F Fail Below 40 F (Fail) F Below 60

FAQs

Q: How can I convert my Canadian grades to the US GPA system?
A: Canadian grades can generally be converted to the US GPA system by aligning the grade percentage with the closest US grade equivalent and then calculating the GPA based on a 4.0 scale. Conversion methods may vary by institution.

Q: Are Canadian high school grades evaluated differently when applying to universities?
A: Yes, universities may evaluate high school grades based on their specific admissions criteria, which can include conversion to their grading scale or consideration of the rigor of the student’s coursework.

Q: How do Canadian university grades translate for international job applications?
A: For international job applications, Canadian university grades may be converted to a GPA or evaluated based on the employer’s understanding of the Canadian grading system. It’s helpful to provide a grade conversion or explanation when applying.

Q: What is the minimum passing grade in Canadian universities?
A: The minimum passing grade in most Canadian universities is a ‘D’, but this can vary depending on the institution and the specific course requirements.