What is the Full Form of CGPA? A Complete Guide to the Basics, Calculation, and Importance of CGPA.

The academic world is a fast-paced one with continuous changes and reformations. From the implementation of the New Education Policy (NEP) to frequent changes in the curriculums, academia has witnessed numerous shifts. One such shift is the introduction of modified grading systems in the educational domain. 

Although the current grading system was introduced in India way back in 2009, the concepts of GPA and CGPA have remained obscure. A common definition, however, follows: CGPA is a measurement scale to check a student’s complete academic accomplishment across the course/degree. Yet, given the importance of this grading system, a deeper knowledge is essential. Find out details beyond the CGPA full form in this blog.

CGPA: What is its Full Form? 

The popular technique of calculating the grades of students in universities and colleges is the Cumulative Grade Point Average, in short, CGPA. This common metric is used to measure the grades and achievements of a student over the academic term or year. 

In the CGPA system, a certain amount of credits is assigned to each course or subject. These assigned credits usually depend on the course’s importance and the number of classes dedicated to it. Based on a student’s performance in each of these subjects, they receive grades or grade points. For grade points, institutions use scales varying from 4.0 to 10.0. For grade letters, students can receive an A, B, C, D, or F based on their grade points. 

CGPA vs. SGPA vs. GPA: What is the Difference? 

For students in colleges or universities, the grading system is not limited to CGPA. They usually come across terms such as SGPA and GPA. Semester Grade Point Average (SGPA) and Grade Point Average (GPA) hold academic importance and are used in performance assessments for students. 

Let’s look at their primary differences for a detailed understanding: 

How to Calculate CGPA? 

The CGPA's full form is important, but its calculation is what holds the key to a student’s achievements in academia. This calculation often depends on the institution’s accepted grading system. As a general rule of thumb, the formula for calculating CGPA is: 

(Total grade points scored in all semesters) / (Total credits taken in all semesters)

Calculating the CGPA from the GPA requires only a few simple steps: 

1. Organize the course according to the credit values and the student’s final grades in each of the subjects. 
2. For each course, calculate the grade points. 
3. Complete a sum for grade points for all the courses. 
4. Complete a sum for the total credits of the course. 
5. Divide the sum of grade points by the sum of all credits taken. 

Besides the general calculation, students might also need to convert it when applying for higher studies or jobs. Let’s look at some of the important conversions: 

• Conversion of Percentage to CGPA. 

After completion of the degree, students usually receive the overall percentage. They can use this percentage to calculate their CGPA. However, they need a conversion factor for this step, which is usually 9.5. This factor might vary based on the institution’s accepted grading system: 

CGPA = Percentage / 9.5 

• Conversion of CGPA to Percentage. 

More often than not, students might need to convert the CGPA score into a percentage value. Since the percentage is still a widely accepted grading system in India, they can convert it using the following formula: 

Percentage = CGPA x 9.5 

1. Conversion of SGPA to CGPA. 

The calculation of CGPA from each semester’s SGPA is a simple method. The following is a straightforward formula: 

CGPA = (Sum of all semesters’ SGPA) / (Total semesters)

• Conversion of Grade Point to Grades. 

In India, most institutes use the 10-point grading system, which assigns different grades to the grade points:

Why is CGPA Important? 

CGPA serves as a vital record of a student's academic performance and plays a significant role in shaping their educational journey. Here are a few more reasons why the CGPA holds such importance in a student’s academia: 

• Academic Success: A student’s academic success is often represented through their CGPA record. It is also a vital eligibility criterion for admissions and scholarship programs in India and abroad. 
• Higher Education: CGPA is a key factor for universities in their admission decisions. Additionally, employers consider the CGPA to compare eligibility. 
• Scholarship Requirement: If a student is aiming for a scholarship abroad, a good CGPA will increase their chances of acquiring it. However, the CGPA system and requirements could vary depending on the institution. 
• Simple Conversions: Several institutions follow the percentage system, while others have evolved into the CGPA system. However, both of them allow for easy conversions. 

Conclusion

Understanding academic success goes beyond grades and marks. Following the standard CGPA system allows students to strive for greater success and knowledge. Besides the CGPA's full form, knowing about its calculation techniques and conversions can offer students the confidence and clarity required to easily navigate through their academic path.