Difference Between CGPA and SGPA: Calculation and Grading Comparison

For students, grades are more than just numbers. They reflect academic performance, decide eligibility for scholarships, and play an important role in job applications and higher education admissions. Two of the most common terms that appear on mark sheets are SGPA and CGPA. Understanding the difference between SGPA and CGPA is essential because universities, employers, and even scholarship committees interpret these scores differently.  

If you are also wondering what is SGPA, or Semester Grade Point Average, then read ahead to know all of it, including difference between GPA and CGPA, GPA to percentage, SGPA to percentage calculator and more in this article, with information on almost all the CGPA grading systems. 

SGPA shows performance in a single semester. It gives a snapshot of how a student performed across all subjects in that term. Whereas CGPA, or Cumulative Grade Point Average, is the overall average of the grade points attained across multiple semesters, offering a long-term view of academic performance. 

It is important to know both the terms SGPA and CGPA in detail, with formulas, step-by-step examples, and how to convert gpa to percentage  or international GPA scales. This article discusses which metric matters more for jobs and higher studies, the impact of retakes and backlogs, and strategies to improve scores effectively. 

What does SGPA mean and how is it calculated? 

SGPA, or Semester Grade Point Average, is a score that reflects a student’s academic performance in a single semester. It is calculated by taking into account the grade points earned in each subject and the number of credits assigned to those subjects. 

What is the definition of SGPA? 

SGPA stands for Semester Grade Point Average. It is the weighted average of grade points obtained in all subjects during one semester, where each subject’s importance is determined by its credit value. 

How do you calculate SGPA step by step? 

The calculation of SGPA follows a simple formula: 

SGPA = (Σ (Credit × Grade Point)) ÷ Σ (Credits) 

Step-by-step: 

1. Identify the credit assigned to each subject in the semester. 
2. Multiply each subject’s grade point (based on marks scored) by its credit. 
3. Add up all the (credit*grade point) products. 
4. Divide the total by the sum of credits for that semester. 

This gives the SGPA for that semester. 

Can you show a worked example of SGPA for one semester? 

Suppose a student has the following grades in a semester: 

Subject	Credits	Grade Point (out of 10)	Credit × Grade Point
Mathematics	4	9	36
Physics	3	8	24
Chemistry	3	7	21
English	2	8	16
Computer Science	4	10	40

• Total of Credit × Grade Point = 137 
• Total Credits = 16 

SGPA = 137 ÷ 16 = 8.56 

So, the SGPA for this semester is 8.56 out of 10. 

Do universities use different grade point scales for SGPA? 

Yes, the grading system is not universal. Some universities in India follow a 10-point scale, while others use a 4-point scale or percentage equivalents. International institutions may also follow the ECTS system (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System). Students must always check their university’s official grading policy before converting SGPA to other scales. 

What does CGPA mean and how is it calculated? 

CGPA, or Cumulative Grade Point Average, represents a student’s overall academic performance across all semesters. Unlike SGPA, which focuses on one semester, CGPA combines results from multiple semesters and gives a broader view of consistency over the entire course. 

What is the definition of CGPA? 

CGPA stands for Cumulative Grade Point Average. It is the weighted average of all SGPAs earned throughout a program, considering the credits of each semester. It reflects long-term performance rather than short-term results. 

How is CGPA calculated from multiple semesters? 

The calculation follows this formula: 

CGPA = (Σ (SGPA × Semester Credits)) ÷ Σ (Total Credits across all semesters) 

Step-by-step: 

1. Calculate SGPA for each semester. 
2. Multiply each SGPA by the total credits in that semester. 
3. Add all the results together. 
4. Divide by the total credits across all semesters. 

This provides the CGPA. 

Can you show a worked example of CGPA with different semester credits? 

Suppose a student has the following SGPAs: 

Semester	Credits	SGPA	SGPA × Credits
Semester 1	20	7.8	156
Semester 2	22	8.2	180.4
Semester 3	24	8.5	204
Semester 4	20	9.0	180

• Total SGPA × Credits = 720.4 
• Total Credits = 86 

CGPA = 720.4 ÷ 86 = 8.38 

So, the overall CGPA is 8.38 out of 10. 

How does retaking courses affect CGPA? 

The effect of retakes depends on the university’s policy: 

• Grade Replacement Policy: If the new grade replaces the old one, CGPA improves as the failed or lower grade is removed. 
• Grade Averaging Policy: If both grades are counted, CGPA may improve slightly or remain nearly the same, depending on the difference. 
• No Replacement: In some cases, the failed attempt stays on the transcript, and only the new grade is added, which lowers the overall impact of improvement. 

Students should check their academic handbook or registrar’s office for exact rules, as policies differ widely. 

How do you convert SGPA to CGPA and vice versa? 

SGPA and CGPA are closely related, but they are not the same. There is a significant difference between CGPA and SGPA. The latter reflects your grades for a single semester, while CGPA combines performance across all semesters. Conversion requires applying credit weightage rather than simply averaging it. 

Is CGPA simply the average of all SGPAs? 

Not exactly. CGPA is the weighted average of all SGPAs, where each semester’s SGPA is multiplied by its total credits before averaging. Simply adding SGPAs and dividing by the number of semesters can give inaccurate results if credit loads differ. 

How do credit differences affect conversion? 

Credits determine the weight of each semester in the overall calculation. For example, a semester with 24 credits carries more weight than one with 18 credits. If you just average SGPAs without considering credits, you may understate or overstate your performance. 

Can you provide a worked example of SGPA to CGPA conversion? 

The key difference between CGPA and SGPA is also in the way that they are calculated. There is a specific formula for conversions. Here is a worked sample of SGPA to CGPA conversion. Consider this student’s record: 

Semester	Credits	SGPA	SGPA × Credits
Semester 1	18	7.2	129.6
Semester 2	22	8.0	176
Semester 3	24	8.5	204
Semester 4	20	9.0	180

• Total SGPA × Credits = 689.6 
• Total Credits = 84 

CGPA = 689.6 ÷ 84 = 8.21 

This shows how SGPA values, when weighted by credits, lead to an accurate CGPA. 

Are there any online calculators for this conversion? 

Yes. Many universities provide official calculators on their portals to ensure accurate results. Apart from that, trusted academic sites and student forums also offer SGPA-to-CGPA tools. However, students should always cross-check with their institution’s official formula, since grading scales and weightage policies vary. 

How does CGPA or SGPA relate to percentage and international GPA scales? 

Students often need to present their scores in formats other than CGPA or SGPA, especially for jobs or higher education abroad. Converting these scores into percentages or international GPA scales can make performance easier to compare, but the challenge is that no universal conversion method exists. Each university or country may use its own rules. 

Can CGPA be converted to percentage universally? 

There is no single conversion formula accepted everywhere. In India, many boards and universities use Percentage = CGPA × 9.5, while some prefer CGPA × 10. Others issue transcripts that already list both CGPA and percentage side by side. 

Because of these differences, using a generic formula without checking your university’s official rules can lead to errors. For example, a CGPA of 8.0 could be shown as either 76% or 80% depending on which formula is used, which may create confusion in applications. 

How do Indian universities differ in CGPA-to-percentage rules? 

Indian institutions have varied approaches. The safest route is to refer to your academic handbook or contact your university’s examination office. Submitting the officially recognized formula prevents disputes during admission or recruitment.  The most sought-after approaches are as follows: 

• CBSE schools: Traditionally follow (CGPA × 9.5) for getting the percentage. 
• Engineering colleges: Many prefer CGPA × 10, though some provide conversion charts. 
• State universities: A few have unique scales, such as including only theory marks in percentage conversion. 

How can CGPA be converted to a 4.0 GPA for studying abroad? 

When applying abroad, our partner universities and all the major universities often want your performance expressed on a 4.0 GPA scale, especially in the US and Canada. However, this conversion is approximate because the grading philosophies differ. A typical mapping looks like this: 

CGPA (10-point scale)	Equivalent GPA (4.0 scale)	Letter Grade
9.0 – 10.0	3.7 – 4.0	A / A+
8.0 – 8.9	3.3 – 3.6	B+ / A-
7.0 – 7.9	2.7 – 3.2	B
6.0 – 6.9	2.0 – 2.6	C

For instance, if your CGPA is 8.2, many US universities would consider it close to a 3.4 GPA (B+). Yet, some institutions will ignore your own conversion and recalculate grades directly from transcripts. Always check the application guidelines of your target university. 

What should students submit to foreign universities: CGPA, SGPA, or percentage? 

Most foreign universities want a clear picture of academic performance, but the format they accept differs. 

• United States and Canada: Applications usually ask for GPA on a 4.0 scale. Since Indian transcripts are often in CGPA or percentage, universities either provide a conversion chart or recalculate grades themselves. Submitting your official CGPA transcript is the safest, and you can optionally add the percentage conversion if your university issues one. 
• United Kingdom and Australia: These countries often accept transcripts in the original grading system. Universities are familiar with CGPA formats from India and may request a percentage breakdown only for specific programs. Some may also compare your CGPA against their entry thresholds (for example, a 6.5 CGPA may be compared to a 2:1 Honors degree in the UK). 
• European universities using ECTS: They usually map your CGPA or percentage into their A–F scale. For this, transcripts with detailed marksheets help them assign the right grade. 

Suggested read: Study Abroad for Free 

It is always best to submit what is officially provided by your home university, whether CGPA, SGPA, or percentage. Avoid self-conversion unless the institution specifically asks for it, as unofficial conversions can create confusion. If your transcript includes all three formats (some Indian universities do this), share the complete document for clarity. 

Is CGPA the same as GPA and how do grading scales differ worldwide? 

Although CGPA and GPA are often used interchangeably in conversation, they are not always the same. The difference mainly lies in how they are calculated, and which education system is using them. Adding to the confusion, countries follow different grading scales, which makes it important for students to understand the terminology when comparing academic performance across borders. 

Suggested Read: CGPA to GPA calculator   

How does CGPA differ from GPA? 

In case you also often wonder what is GPA and how is it different from CGPA, then let this be clear to you that the main distinction amongst them, is the scope, let's see how: 

• CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) is the overall average of grade points earned across all semesters. It reflects long-term, cumulative performance. 
• GPA (Grade Point Average) often refers to the average for a single term or academic year. 

For example, a student with semester-wise GPAs of 3.4, 3.6, and 3.2 will have a CGPA of about 3.4 over those three terms. In India, CGPA is widely used, while in North America, GPA is the standard term. 

In short, CGPA is broader, while GPA can be narrower and semester-specific. 

When is a 4.0 scale used versus a 10.0 scale? 

Grading scales differ significantly worldwide: 

• United States and Canada: Follow a 4.0 GPA scale, where 4.0 is an “A” or top performance. 
• India: Many universities and boards follow a 10.0 CGPA scale. A 9.0 or above usually signals excellent performance. 
• Other countries: Some, like Germany, use a reverse scale (1.0 as best, 5.0 as fail), while others like the UK rely on degree classifications (First, 2:1, 2:2, etc.). 

This difference means that a student scoring 8.5 CGPA in India must present it carefully abroad, as it will not directly match a 4.0 GPA unless mapped using conversion guidelines. 

How do letter grades, percentages, and ECTS compare to CGPA or SGPA? 

Apart from GPA or CGPA numbers, many universities use letter grades (A, B, C, etc.), percentages, or systems like ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System). Conversions typically work like this: 

Indian CGPA (10-point)	Approx. Percentage	ECTS Letter Grade	US Equivalent (4.0 GPA)
9.0 – 10.0	85–100%	A	3.7 – 4.0
7.5 – 8.9	70–84%	B	3.0 – 3.6
6.0 – 7.4	55–69%	C	2.0 – 2.9
Below 6.0	Below 55%	D / F	Below 2.0

For instance, if your Indian transcript shows a 7.8 CGPA, a European university might classify it as a B under ECTS, while a US institution could consider it around 3.2 GPA. The actual mapping, however, depends on the receiving institution’s rules. 

Which matters more, SGPA or CGPA, for jobs, higher studies, and scholarships? 

Both SGPA and CGPA matter, but they serve different purposes. CGPA is generally the more important metric because it reflects overall academic performance across semesters, which employers, universities, and scholarship committees often use for eligibility and comparison. However, SGPA can still play a role, especially in showing recent academic improvement or subject-specific strength. 

Do employers focus on SGPA or CGPA? 

Most employers, particularly during campus placements, consider CGPA as the benchmark. It gives them a cumulative view of a student’s consistency and performance throughout the course. 

That said, some companies, especially in technical fields, may look at recent SGPA scores to assess whether a candidate’s performance has improved in advanced semesters. For example, a student with a 7.0 CGPA but strong SGPAs of 8.5 in the final year may still stand out in interviews as showing growth and subject mastery. 

Suggested Read: How to Effectively Include Your GPA on Resume.   

How do universities treat SGPA versus CGPA in admissions? 

For higher studies, universities usually rely on CGPA when setting eligibility criteria. Many postgraduate programs specify a minimum CGPA (for example, 6.5 or 7.0 out of 10) for applications. 

However, SGPA may come into play if admissions committees want to see recent performance trends. For instance, a student with an overall CGPA of 6.8 but consistent SGPAs above 8.0 in the last two semesters may demonstrate the ability to succeed in a master’s program, even if the CGPA is slightly below the stated cutoff. 

Can strong recent SGPAs compensate for lower early CGPA? 

Yes, in many cases. Consistently higher SGPAs in later semesters show academic growth and adaptability. Employers may value this trajectory when evaluating candidates, and universities may consider it when reviewing borderline applications. 

For example, if a student struggled in the first year and scored low SGPAs, pulling the CGPA down to 6.5, but later achieved 8.5 or above consistently, it signals improvement. This upward trend can strengthen both job prospects and scholarship applications, especially when paired with strong recommendation letters or relevant project work. 

How do retakes, grade improvements, and backlog clearances affect SGPA and CGPA? 

Retaking courses, improving grades, or clearing backlogs can directly impact academic averages, but the outcome depends heavily on a university’s specific policies. Some institutions replace the old grade with the new one, while others average both attempts. Knowing these rules is important for understanding how your SGPA and CGPA will change after re-examinations. 

If I retake a paper, will CGPA change? 

Yes, but the extent of change depends on policy. In many universities, when you retake a course and score higher, the new grade replaces the old one, raising your CGPA. 

However, some institutions keep both attempts on the transcript, which dilutes the effect of improvement. For example, if a course worth 4 credits was originally graded at 5 points (20 total) and later improved to 8 points (32 total), under a replacement policy, only 32 counts. But if both are recorded, your average may improve only slightly. 

How are failed courses handled in CGPA calculation? 

If you fail a course, most universities record it as zero grade points while still counting the credits, which can significantly lower your SGPA and CGPA. 

In some systems, once you clear the backlog, the new grade is added and the failed attempt is removed from the calculation. In others, the failure remains visible on the transcript but does not weigh into the CGPA once passed. For example, clearing a 3-credit backlog with a “B” grade can lift the CGPA meaningfully if the failure is fully replaced. 

Will clearing backlogs always improve CGPA? 

Not always. If your university replaces the failed grade with a new one, your CGPA will definitely rise. But if both attempts are visible and calculated, the improvement may be partial. 

A student with multiple backlogs may see smaller jumps even after clearing them because older low scores or failures remain on record. Still, clearing backlogs shows perseverance, which is valued by employers and admissions committees even beyond the numbers. 

How can I improve my SGPA and CGPA effectively? 

Improving academic performance is not about quick fixes but about consistent habits, smart course planning, and using resources wisely. SGPA can be boosted within a semester through focused effort, while CGPA requires steady improvement across multiple terms. Both can rise if you understand how credit weightages work and play to your strengths. 

What short-term strategies can improve the next semester SGPA? 

If you want to see an immediate improvement in your SGPA, focus on semester-specific steps: 

• Prioritize high-credit courses: These carry more weight in SGPA calculation. For example, scoring well in a 4-credit subject impacts your average more than in a 2-credit elective. 
• Stay consistent with assignments: Regular submissions and internal marks can make a difference of half a grade point in many universities. 
• Target weak areas early: Instead of cramming before exams, schedule weekly review sessions for subjects you struggle with. 
• Form study groups: Discussing topics with peers helps simplify difficult concepts and improves recall. 

For instance, if your semester includes a 6-credit mathematics course and three 2-credit electives, scoring an “A” in math can outweigh average performance in electives, pulling SGPA higher. 

What long-term strategies raise CGPA over multiple semesters? 

Since CGPA is cumulative, it takes sustained effort across semesters. Some practical strategies include: 

• Build momentum after early slips: Even if your first-year CGPA is low, consistent SGPAs of 8.0+ in later semesters can lift your overall average. 
• Balance course load: Avoid overloading difficult electives in a single semester; spread them out to maintain balance. 
• Seek academic support: Use faculty office hours, mentorship programs, or academic support centers when stuck. 
• Monitor progress semester by semester: Keep track of both SGPA and CGPA to identify whether you are on track to reach your target. 

For example, a student who starts with a 6.5 CGPA in the first year but maintains an 8.5 SGPA in the next four semesters can raise their final CGPA above 7.5. 

Can credit or elective choices help boost CGPA? 

Yes, being strategic with course selection can make a noticeable difference. 

• Choose electives aligned with strengths: If you excel in theoretical subjects, avoid overloading the heavy lab-heavy electives, or vice versa. 
• Understand credit weighting: A high grade in a 5-credit subject influences CGPA far more than in a 2-credit course. 
• Avoid unnecessary repeats: Retaking non-core subjects just to improve marginal grades may not boost CGPA as much as focusing on upcoming core, high-credit ones. 

For instance, excelling in a 5-credit “Core Programming” course will have a larger positive impact on CGPA than scoring the same grade in a 2-credit “Soft Skills” elective. 

Where can I find official formulas, calculators, and university rules? 

Accessing accurate resources is essential for proper calculation and understanding of SGPA and CGPA. Official academic regulations, trusted calculators, and knowledge of exceptions such as grade replacement policies ensure your calculations are precise, credible, and accepted by universities, employers, and scholarship committees.  

Which university documents list SGPA and CGPA calculation rules? 

Official university websites, academic handbooks, and syllabi provide the most reliable information. These documents typically include course credit allocations, the formula for SGPA and CGPA, minimum passing criteria, and rules for rounding up decimals. Always refer to the latest version, as universities occasionally update these policies. 

Common official sources: 

• Academic handbook or syllabus (semester-wise regulations) 
• University website – sections such as “Examinations” or “Academic Regulations” 
• Department notice boards or internal portals 
• Registrar or academic advisor communications 

Are online calculators reliable? 

Online calculators can help simplify SGPA and CGPA calculations, but reliability varies. Tools provided by your university or department are most accurate. Third-party calculators may not follow your university’s exact credit weighting or grading scale, so they should be used only as a rough estimate. 

Comparison of calculators: 

Calculator	Source	Reliability
University portal calculator	Official	High; Follows exact university rules
College-affiliated calculators	Department	Medium; Verify credit weights before use
Third-party online tools	Independent	Low to Medium; Use only for rough estimates, not official submissions

What should I verify on my transcript before using an online tool? 

Before using any calculator, make sure your transcript accurately lists all grades and credits. This prevents miscalculations and ensures your results match official records. 

Transcript checklist: 

• All course grades are listed correctly 
• Correct credit allocation for each course 
• Retaken courses or grade replacements are included 
• Practical, lab, or internship marks are accounted for if applicable 
• Semester-wise SGPA and cumulative CGPA are consistent 

What are the most common mistakes students make about CGPA and SGPA? 

Even the most careful students can make errors when calculating SGPA and CGPA. Understanding these mistakes can help you avoid stress and plan your academic performance more effectively. Below is a breakdown of common pitfalls and why they matter. 

Why is it wrong to average SGPAs without weighting credits? 

A common misconception is that CGPA is just the simple average of all semester SGPAs. This approach is misleading because each course carries a different credit weight. Treating all courses equally can distort your actual performance. 

For example, scoring high in low-credit courses while struggling in high-credit courses can make your CGPA appear better than it truly is. The correct method is to multiply each grade by its credit, sum up the results, and divide by the total credits. This provides a true reflection of your cumulative performance. 

It is important to always weigh grades by course credits for accurate CGPA calculation. 

Why should CGPA-to-percentage rules not be blindly trusted? 

CGPA-to-percentage conversions are tempting shortcuts, but every university may use a different formula. Some include scaling factors or minimum grade thresholds. 

Using a generic formula can misrepresent your marks, especially when applying for jobs, scholarships, or higher studies abroad. Always check your university’s official conversion formula to ensure accuracy. 

Which transcript details do students often overlook? 

It is easy to focus only on grades, but other details can significantly affect your CGPA: 

• Course credits: Ignoring them can distort cumulative GPA calculations 
• Internships, labs, or projects: Some universities include these in GPA, while others do not 
• Backlogs and retaken courses: Not factoring these in can change your cumulative GPA 

Keeping a semester-wise record of grades and credits acts as a personal academic logbook, ensuring nothing is overlooked, and calculations remain accurate. 

Common Mistakes Summary Table 

Mistake	Why it matters	How to avoid it
Averaging SGPAs without weighting by credits	Gives a false picture of cumulative performance	Multiply each grade by its credit, sum, and divide by total credits
Using generic CGPA-to-percentage formulas	May misrepresent marks for applications	Always use the official university conversion formula
Overlooking transcript details	Can affect calculations and create confusion during applications	Keep a detailed record of grades, credits, retakes, and project marks

Summary and Practical Tips for Managing SGPA and CGPA 

Understanding SGPA and CGPA can feel overwhelming at first, but with careful tracking and awareness, you can manage your academic performance effectively. Here are the key takeaways and tips to keep in mind: 

1. Know the difference and purpose 
   SGPA reflects your performance in a single semester, while CGPA shows your cumulative performance across all semesters. Both matter, but they serve different purposes depending on applications or evaluations. 
2. Always factor in credits 
   When calculating CGPA, do not simply average semester GPAs or course grades. Multiply each grade by its credit, sum the results, and divide by total credits to get an accurate picture. 
3. Use official sources 
   Check your university’s academic regulations, handbooks, or student portals for formulas, credit weights, and rounding rules. Official resources are the most reliable for calculations, percentage conversions, and transcript details. 
4. Track every detail 
   Keep a personal record of semester grades, credits, and any retaken courses. Note whether projects, labs, or internships contribute to GPA. This habit prevents errors and makes future calculations easier. 
5. Verify conversions 
   Do not rely on generic CGPA-to-percentage calculators. Conversion rules can differ by institution. Always use official formulas or confirm with your registrar before submitting any documents. 
6. Plan for improvement 
   Low CGPA or SGPA can be improved through consistent performance in future semesters, retaking courses if allowed, or using grade improvement schemes. Prioritize high-credit courses and maintain steady effort. 
7. Check for common mistakes 
   Avoid overlooking details, miscalculating averages, or assuming online tools are accurate. Awareness of these common errors can save time and prevent issues during placements or scholarship applications. 

By following these steps, you can maintain accurate records, make informed decisions, and present your academic performance confidently to universities, employers, and scholarship committees. Begin your study abroad journey with UpGrad today!