Calculating my yearly GPA

[jes766]

Hi all!

 

I have read the CASPA GPA guidelines in depth and either there is no details on this or I have simply missed it.

 

When calculating your yearly GPA what does CASPA classify as a freshmen, sophomore, junior, senior? Is it the 1st 2 semester = freshman or 1st 30 units = freshman.

 

 

Here is the link: https://portal.caspaonline.org/caspaHelpPages/frequently-asked-questions/processing-your-application/grade-point-average-gpa-calculations/

 

Thanks!

[AliB]

I can't answer your specific question, though it may be based on how it's reflected on your transcript or based on how you enter the course work (since you specify your academic status, freshman, etc., as you enter the details).  

 

However, I don't think it really matters all that much as your overall GPAs are what are evaluated initially; your year-by-year GPAs really only come into consideration with respect to trends (did you have a shaky start and then improve?  or did you breeze through at first and then struggle with more advance, upper level coursework).  

[jes766]

I was pretty shaky starting out  (2.2-2.7) and then I significantly improved once I was given testing accommodations (3.6-3.7) but this last semester I took 19 units and was doing 2 separate independent research projects which led to me getting a 2.5 for that semester :-/ . 

 

I still have 16 more units left until I am done. I know that I have to take more classes after I graduate to improve my GPA but I am trying to figure out the best plan for that based on how CASPA calculates GPA and how many different ways they allow schools to analyze your GPA. 

[ilygurlie]

Your postbacc classes will factor into your undergrad gpa so everything averages out. You do have a separate postbacc gpa but most schools mainly look at overall cumulative gpa and overall science gpa. Many schools will also look at last 30-60 credits for a trend upward. 

 

Schools don't like up and down trends when it comes to grades. Make sure you finish your semester very strong and continue to take postbacc classes with ideally a 3.8 or higher GPA.