How to Calculate Weighted Grades in Specific Philippine Universities (e.g., UPD, Ateneo, De La Salle)
Calculating weighted grades is an essential skill for students in the Philippines, particularly when aiming for honors, scholarships, or specific academic standards. Each university has its unique grading system and requirements. This guide explains how to calculate weighted grades for three of the country’s top institutions: University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD), Ateneo de Manila University (Ateneo), and De La Salle University (DLSU).
Understanding Weighted Grades
Weighted grades account for the importance of a subject by factoring in both the grade received and the number of credit units assigned. The formula for calculating weighted grades is:
Weighted Grade=Grade×Credit Units\text{Weighted Grade} = \text{Grade} \times \text{Credit Units}Weighted Grade=Grade×Credit Units
To determine your General Weighted Average (GWA), you sum all the weighted grades and divide by the total number of units.
1. University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD)
Grading System
UPD uses a numerical grading system ranging from 1.00 (excellent) to 5.00 (fail). A passing grade is typically 3.00.
Steps to Calculate Weighted Grades in UPD
- List Subjects, Grades, and Units:
Example:- Subject A: 1.75, 3 units
- Subject B: 2.25, 5 units
- Multiply Grades by Units:
- Subject A: 1.75×3=5.251.75 \times 3 = 5.251.75×3=5.25
- Subject B: 2.25×5=11.252.25 \times 5 = 11.252.25×5=11.25
- Sum the Weighted Grades:
5.25+11.25=16.505.25 + 11.25 = 16.505.25+11.25=16.50 - Divide by Total Units:
GWA=16.508=2.06\text{GWA} = \frac{16.50}{8} = 2.06GWA=816.50=2.06
Why It Matters in UPD
- Scholarships: A GWA of 1.75 or better is usually required for scholarships.
- Honors: To graduate cum laude, a GWA of 1.75 or lower is necessary.
2. Ateneo de Manila University (Ateneo)
Grading System
Ateneo uses a letter grading system that corresponds to percentage grades and quality points. Example:
- A: 4.0 (90%-100%)
- B+: 3.5 (85%-89%)
- B: 3.0 (80%-84%)
Steps to Calculate Weighted Grades in Ateneo
- Convert Grades to Quality Points:
Example:- Subject A: B+ (3.5), 3 units
- Subject B: A (4.0), 4 units
- Multiply Quality Points by Units:
- Subject A: 3.5×3=10.53.5 \times 3 = 10.53.5×3=10.5
- Subject B: 4.0×4=16.04.0 \times 4 = 16.04.0×4=16.0
- Sum the Weighted Grades:
10.5+16.0=26.510.5 + 16.0 = 26.510.5+16.0=26.5 - Divide by Total Units:
GWA=26.57=3.79\text{GWA} = \frac{26.5}{7} = 3.79GWA=726.5=3.79
Why It Matters in Ateneo
- Dean’s List: Requires a GWA of 3.35 or higher.
- Scholarships: Competitive grants often require a GWA of 3.5 or better.
3. De La Salle University (DLSU)
Grading System
DLSU follows a numerical grading system with the following scale:
- 4.0: Excellent (97%-100%)
- 3.5: Very Good (92%-96%)
- 3.0: Good (86%-91%)
Steps to Calculate Weighted Grades in DLSU
- List Grades and Units:
Example:- Subject A: 3.5, 3 units
- Subject B: 3.0, 4 units
- Multiply Grades by Units:
- Subject A: 3.5×3=10.53.5 \times 3 = 10.53.5×3=10.5
- Subject B: 3.0×4=12.03.0 \times 4 = 12.03.0×4=12.0
- Sum the Weighted Grades:
10.5+12.0=22.510.5 + 12.0 = 22.510.5+12.0=22.5 - Divide by Total Units:
GWA=22.57=3.21\text{GWA} = \frac{22.5}{7} = 3.21GWA=722.5=3.21
Why It Matters in DLSU
- Academic Honors: A GWA of 3.25 or better qualifies for academic honors.
- Retention: Certain programs require a minimum GWA for students to remain enrolled.
Comparison of Requirements Across Universities
| University | Passing GWA | Honors GWA | Scholarship GWA |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPD | 3.0 | 1.75 or lower | 1.75 or lower |
| Ateneo | 3.0 (letter: B) | 3.35 or higher | 3.5 or higher |
| DLSU | 3.0 | 3.25 or higher | 3.5 or higher |
Common Challenges in Calculating Weighted Grades
- Different Grading Scales: Each university has its own system, making it essential to understand the specific criteria.
- Human Error: Miscalculating units or grades can lead to incorrect GWAs.
- Inconsistent Information: Always refer to your university’s official handbook for accurate grade conversion.
Tips for Students
- Track Your Grades Regularly: Use tools or spreadsheets to monitor your performance.
- Consult Professors or Advisors: They can help clarify your standing.
- Utilize Online Calculators: Save time and reduce errors with a reliable GWA Calculator.
Conclusion
Calculating weighted grades is straightforward once you understand the grading system of your university. Whether you’re aiming for scholarships, honors, or meeting program requirements, keeping track of your GWA is essential. Use the steps outlined here and stay informed about your university’s policies to achieve your academic goals.
