How to Compute GWA in PUP – Step-by-Step Guide 2025
How to Compute GWA in PUP (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)
The General Weighted Average (GWA) is the standard measure of a student’s academic performance in the Philippines. It combines your grades from different subjects, factoring in their credit units, to produce a single score that reflects your overall academic standing.
At the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, the GWA is used for:
Scholarship eligibility
Latin honors (Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude)
Academic progress evaluation
n other countries, this is similar to the Grade Point Average (GPA). While both measure academic achievement, their grading scales are different.
PUP Grading System and Grading Scale
PUP follows the Philippine grading system, which uses numerical values from 1.00 to 5.00. This differs from the letter grade system (A, B, C, D, F) or the 4.0 GPA scale used in the U.S.
| Grade | Description | Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 1.00 | Excellent | Highest grade |
| 1.25 – 1.75 | Very Good | A / A– |
| 2.00 – 2.75 | Good / Satisfactory | B / C+ |
| 3.00 | Passing Grade | D |
| 5.00 | Failing Grade | F |
Other universities like UP, De La Salle University (DLSU), University of Santo Tomas (UST), and Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) also use GWA, though their grading variations may differ slightly.
Formula for GWA Computation
The formula for GWA computation in PUP is straightforward and follows the weighted average method. You multiply each subject grade by its credit units, add all the results, and then divide by the total number of units. This ensures that subjects with higher units have a greater impact on your overall average. Mastering this formula helps students track their academic standing, apply for scholarships, and qualify for Latin honors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Calculate GWA in PUP
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List all subjects with their final grade and credit units.
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Multiply each grade by its corresponding units.
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Add all weighted results.
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Add all credit units.
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Divide total weighted points by total units.
Example Computation:
| Subject | Grade | Units | Grade × Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Math 101 | 1.75 | 3 | 5.25 |
| English 101 | 2.00 | 3 | 6.00 |
| Science 101 | 1.50 | 4 | 6.00 |
| Filipino 101 | 2.25 | 2 | 4.50 |
| PE 101 | 1.25 | 2 | 2.50 |
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Total Weighted Points = 24.25
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Total Credit Units = 14
GWA = 24.25 ÷ 14 = 1.73
The student’s overall GWA is 1.73, which falls under “Very Good” in the PUP grading scale.
Converting GWA to GPA
For students applying abroad or to international scholarships, GWA must be converted to GPA.
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Philippines GWA = 1.00 (highest) to 5.00 (failing)
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U.S. GPA = 4.0 (highest) to 0.0 (failing)
Example Conversion:
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GWA 1.00 – 1.25 ≈ GPA 4.0 (A)
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GWA 1.75 – 2.00 ≈ GPA 3.0 (B)
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GWA 3.00 ≈ GPA 1.0 (D)
You can use a GWA-to-GPA converter or an online GPA calculator to simplify this process.
GWA to Percentage Conversion
Some schools in the Philippines and abroad use percentage grading. Here’s an approximate guide:
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GWA 1.00 ≈ 97–100%
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GWA 1.75 ≈ 90–92%
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GWA 2.50 ≈ 80–83%
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GWA 3.00 = 75% (Passing)
Example: A student with a GWA of 1.75 has an approximate percentage grade of 92%.
Importance of GWA in Your Academic Journey
Your GWA directly impacts:
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Scholarship applications (many require 2.00 or better)
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Latin honors at graduation
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Academic achievement records
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Job or internship opportunities (some companies check GWA)
Universities like DLSU, UST, Ateneo, and UP highlight GWA in evaluating a student’s overall academic progress.
Frequently Asked Questions: Understanding the PUP Grading System
What is the highest grade in PUP?
A: The highest possible grade in the PUP grading system is 1.00 (Excellent).
What is the passing grade in PUP?
A: The passing grade is 3.00. A grade of 5.00 means you are failing.
Does PUP use GPA?
A: No, PUP uses GWA (General Weighted Average). However, you can use a GWA to GPA converter for international university applications.
Can I use an online calculator for GWA?
A: Yes! Using an online GWA calculator helps you compute your average instantly and avoid manual errors.
Do all Philippine universities use the same system?
A: Most universities follow the 1.00–5.00 GWA system, but some schools like UP, Ateneo, DLSU, and UST have minor variations.
Conclusion
Computing your GWA in PUP is simple once you understand the formula and grading system. Just multiply your grades by credit units, divide by total units, and you’ll have your general weighted average.
Whether for scholarships, Latin honors, or GPA conversion, mastering this process is essential for your academic success.
Try an Online GWA Calculator Philippines to save time and get accurate results!
