Calculating Your CGPA: The Complete Guide for Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education STUDENTS
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what CGPA means, how it’s calculated, and why it matters—along with sample calculations, frequently asked questions, and tips to improve your academic performance.
What is CGPA?
CGPA stands for Cumulative Grade Point Average. It is the overall average of all your grade points earned across all semesters and all completed courses—weighted by the credit units of those courses.
It provides a standardized way to assess academic performance and is used for:
Determining academic standing (e.g., first class, second class, etc.)
Eligibility for scholarships or leadership roles
Graduation qualification
NYSC (National Youth Service Corps) mobilization
How to Calculate Your CGPA (Step-by-Step)
To calculate your CGPA at Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, follow these five steps:
Step 1: Understand the Grading System
At AIFUE, the grading system is based on a 5-point scale as follows:
GradeScore (%)Grade PointA70–1005.00B60–694.00C50–593.00D45–492.00E40–441.00F0–390.00
Note: Some departments may have stricter rules, so always check with your faculty handbook.
Step 2: Get Your Grade Points for Each Course
Multiply your grade point by the credit unit of the course.
Formula:
Grade Point for a course = Grade Value × Credit Unit
Step 3: Add All Your Grade Points
Sum up the grade points of all courses you've taken.
Step 4: Add All Your Credit Units
Add together the credit units of all the courses you've completed.
Step 5: Divide Total Grade Points by Total Credit Units
Formula:
CGPA = Total Grade Points ÷ Total Credit Units
Example Calculation
Imagine you're a 100-level student who just completed a semester with the following results:
Course CodeGradeCredit UnitGrade PointEDU101A33 × 5 = 15GSP111B22 × 4 = 8ENG101C33 × 3 = 9BIO102A44 × 5 = 20FRE101D22 × 2 = 4
Total Grade Points = 15 + 8 + 9 + 20 + 4 = 56
Total Credit Units = 3 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 2 = 14
CGPA = 56 ÷ 14 = 4.00
Class of Degree Based on CGPA
CGPA RangeClass of Degree4.50 – 5.00First Class Honours3.50 – 4.49Second Class Upper2.40 – 3.49Second Class Lower1.50 – 2.39Third Class1.00 – 1.49Pass0.00 – 0.99Fail (Not Graduated)
Your class of degree is based on your final CGPA upon graduation, which is the average of all semesters' GPA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is GPA the same as CGPA?
A: No. GPA refers to your Grade Point Average in one semester, while CGPA is cumulative over all semesters.
Q2: What if I fail a course?
A: A failed course (grade F = 0) contributes 0 to your total grade points but its credit units are still added. This drastically lowers your CGPA.
Q3: Can I retake a course to improve my CGPA?
A: Yes, but the university policy may vary. Often, the new grade replaces the old one, which can boost your CGPA.
Q4: Do non-credit courses affect my CGPA?
A: No, courses with 0 credit units (like some GSPs or practicals) do not affect CGPA calculation.
Tips to Improve or Maintain a High CGPA
Attend all lectures: Understanding the lecturer's approach is key.
Avoid carryovers: Failing a course pulls your CGPA down fast.
Study smart: Focus on credit-heavy coursesthey weigh more in your CGPA.
Join study groups: Collaborative learning helps you understand concepts better.
Use past questions: Know the format of exams and typical expectations.
Consult your course adviser regularly: They can guide you on course selection and performance tracking.
Final Thoughts
Your CGPA is more than just a number—it’s a reflection of your academic journey and consistency. Keeping track of it helps you make informed decisions, set realistic goals, and prepare for opportunities after school.
Whether you’re aiming for a First Class or trying to stay above the graduation threshold, staying informed is the first step. And remember: every semester counts
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