UCSD GPA scale and grading policy
Quick answer: University of California, San Diego uses the standard 4.0 scale with +/− grades. UC uses a capped weighted GPA on grades earned in approved A-G courses from 10th and 11th grade only. Weighting is +1.0 for UC-honors-approved, AP, and IB classes up to a cap of 8 semesters.
| Metric | UCSD Standard |
|---|---|
| Typical admit GPA | 4.13 - 4.32 UC-weighted |
| Good standing minimum | 2.0 |
| Dean's List threshold | 3.5+ for Provost's Honors |
| Scale type | Standard 4.0 scale with +/− grades. |
How UC San Diego recalculates GPA for admission
UC uses a capped weighted GPA on grades earned in approved A-G courses from 10th and 11th grade only. Weighting is +1.0 for UC-honors-approved, AP, and IB classes up to a cap of 8 semesters. The number you submit on your transcript and the number UCSD uses in its admission decision may differ. Use the calculator above to model both — switch the preset to match UC San Diego's policy.
Maintaining a good UCSD GPA
- Track cumulative GPA, not just semester GPA. University of California, San Diego reports both. Most academic warnings trigger on the cumulative number.
- Use the credit-weighted scoring above.A 4-credit course's grade affects your GPA 33% more than a 3-credit course's grade.
- Plan for honors. 3.5+ for Provost's Honors. Use the GPA Goal Calculator to see what grade average you need next semester to qualify.
- Check the grade replacement policy. UC San Diego, like most universities, has a grade-replacement policy for retaken courses. Removing a low grade from the cumulative is the single biggest GPA lift.