Introduction to Grade Point Averages (GPAs)
UCD uses grade point averages to aggregate the grades awarded to modules for different reasons and at different times during students' careers in UCD. The methods of calculating different GPAs are outlined on this page.
Every letter grade awarded by UCD has a numeric value - a Grade Point. Fail grades have a Grade Point of zero. The Grade Point for Pass grades start at 2 for a D—rising to 4.2 for an A+. These values/Grade Points are then weighted in credit load for Stage GPA or by credit load and degree rule for Award GPA.
GPAs are used to assess achievement and progress during a programme's study and to decide which honours classification to award to graduates.
GPAs are system-calculated at set periods during the academic year. The timing for this is published under the Grade Approvals Process (GAP) Assessment Bulk Processing in the Assessment Key Dates. GPAs can be run for individual students or cohorts outside of GAP timelines where required.
You should be aware that UCD discourages the accumulation of additional credit above a programme's requirements for Stage and Award GPA. As such, Assessment will not facilitate queries regarding the Stage and Award GPA calculations where a student may accumulate additional credit.