Your GPA (Grade Point Average) is a numerical representation of your academic performance. It is calculated based on the grades you earn in your courses and their corresponding credit units.
A high GPA can help you:
Qualify for scholarships and academic honors
Secure internships and job opportunities
Gain admission to postgraduate programs
Now, let’s dive into how GPA is calculated at the University of Nairobi.
Step-by-Step Guide to GPA Calculation
To calculate your GPA, follow these steps:
1. Convert Letter Grades to Numerical Values
The University of Nairobi uses the following grading scale:
| Letter Grade | Grade Points |
|---|---|
| A | 4.0 |
| B | 3.0 |
| C | 2.0 |
| D | 1.0 |
| F | 0.0 |
2. Multiply Grade Points by Credit Units
Each course has a specific number of credit units (also called credit hours). Multiply your grade points by the number of credit units for each course.
Example:
If you scored a B (3 points) in a 3-credit course:
3 (grade points) × 3 (credit units) = 9 grade points
3. Sum Up Your Total Grade Points
Add all the grade points from your courses.
4. Sum Up Your Total Credit Units
Add up the credit units for all the courses you took.
5. Divide Total Grade Points by Total Credit Units
Finally, divide your total grade points by your total credit units to get your GPA.
Example Calculation:
| Course | Grade | Grade Points | Credit Units | Total Grade Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course 1 | B (3) | 3 | 3 | 3 × 3 = 9 |
| Course 2 | A (4) | 4 | 4 | 4 × 4 = 16 |
| Course 3 | C (2) | 2 | 2 | 2 × 2 = 4 |
Total Grade Points = 9 + 16 + 4 = 29
Total Credit Units = 3 + 4 + 2 = 9
GPA = Total Grade Points / Total Credit Units
GPA = 29 / 9 = 3.22
Key Things to Keep in Mind
Credit Units Matter: Not all courses have the same weight. Some are worth more credit units than others, meaning they have a bigger impact on your GPA.
Continuous Assessment Plays a Role: Your final grade isn’t just based on your exam performance. Assignments, quizzes, and tests also contribute.
Check Official University Regulations: The University of Nairobi may update its grading system, so always refer to the latest academic guidelines.
CGPA (Cumulative GPA) vs. GPA:
- GPA is your grade average for a single semester.
- CGPA (Cumulative GPA) is your grade average across multiple semesters.