How do you calculate what grade you need on a final?

The formula is: Required Exam Grade = (Desired Grade - (Current Grade * (1 - Exam Weight))) / Exam Weight. Where exam weight is a decimal (e.g., 20% = 0.2).

Final Grade Calculator | Determine Your Required Final Exam Score

GlobalGPA

Exam Score Planner

Fill in your details below. Calculations update in real-time as you adjust slide bars and entry fields.

Your Current Grade (%)

Your Target Grade (%)

Final Exam Weight (%)

Required Final Exam Score

110.0%

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How to Calculate What Grade You Need on Your Final

The grade calculation relies on splitting your class grade into two components: the portion of your grade earned before the final exam, and the portion earned during the final exam.

The Final Grade Formula:

        Exam Grade Needed = [Target Grade - (Current Grade × (1 - Exam Weight))] / Exam Weight
      

Step-by-Step Calculation Example:

Suppose you currently have an 82% in Chemistry, your goal is to secure an 85% (B), and the final exam constitutes 15% of your total grade:

First, convert the final exam weight to a decimal: 15% = 0.15. The remaining class portion is 1 - 0.15 = 0.85.
Multiply current score by remaining portion: 82 × 0.85 = 69.7.
Subtract this value from your target: 85 - 69.7 = 15.3.
Divide by final exam weight: 15.3 / 0.15 = 102%.
Result: You would need to score a 102% on the exam (meaning you'd need extra credit) to finish the class with an 85%.

Frequently Asked Questions

If the final grade calculator indicates a required score above 100%, it means it is mathematically impossible to reach your target grade with standard scoring. You would need to speak with your instructor about extra credit options, curves, or grade adjustments.

Your current grade (e.g., 85%) should already include all homework, quizzes, exams, and participation grades recorded so far. Check your school syllabus or grading portal to make sure you use your combined average before using this tool.