Percentage Grade Calculator
A percentage grade calculator converts raw points into the percentage score and letter grade that appear on a report card or transcript. Two questions come up constantly in every classroom: "What percentage did I get?" and "How many points do I need for a B?" This tool answers both. Mode 1 takes earned points and total points, divides them, and maps the result to the standard US letter-grade scale (A: 90 to 100, B: 80 to 89, C: 70 to 79, D: 60 to 69, F: below 60). Mode 2 runs the calculation in reverse, converting a target percentage into the number of raw points it represents out of any total. The underlying arithmetic is simple division, but having the letter grade displayed alongside the number helps students quickly understand where they stand and what they need to achieve. Both modes update instantly as you type, so you can explore "what if" scenarios without pressing a button. The grading scale used here reflects the most common practice across US public schools, as documented by the National Center for Education Statistics. Always verify the exact cutoffs with your instructor or student handbook, because some institutions use different thresholds or include plus and minus grades.
Your grade is --% (--).
How percentage grades are calculated
The percentage grade is simply the ratio of points earned to points possible, expressed as a percentage. Mapping that percentage to a letter grade uses fixed cutoffs that most US schools share.
Percentage = (Earned points / Total points) x 100
Earned points (reverse) = (Percentage / 100) x Total points
Worked example (Mode 1)
- Earned points: 42. Total points: 50.
- Percentage = (42 / 50) x 100 = 84.00%
- 84% falls between 80 and 89, so the letter grade is B.
Letter grade scale
| Letter | Percentage range |
|---|---|
| A | 90% to 100% |
| B | 80% to 89% |
| C | 70% to 79% |
| D | 60% to 69% |
| F | Below 60% |
Percentage grade calculator: frequently asked questions
How do I calculate my grade as a percentage?
Divide earned points by total possible points, then multiply by 100. For example, if you scored 42 out of 50, the calculation is (42 / 50) x 100 = 84%. That falls in the B range (80 to 89%) on a standard letter-grade scale. This calculator does the arithmetic for you and also returns the letter grade.
What are the standard letter grade cutoffs?
The most widely used scale in US schools assigns A to 90 to 100%, B to 80 to 89%, C to 70 to 79%, D to 60 to 69%, and F to anything below 60%. Some institutions use plus and minus grades (for example A- from 90 to 92%, A from 93 to 96%, A+ from 97 to 100%), but the base cutoffs above are the most common. Always confirm your school's specific grading scale.
What does Mode 2 (percentage to points) calculate?
Mode 2 works in reverse. Enter the percentage you have (or want) and the total points possible, and the calculator tells you how many raw points that percentage represents. For example, 75% of 200 points equals 150 earned points. This is useful when a rubric or report card shows percentages but you need to know the underlying point count.
Can I use this for weighted assignments?
This calculator works on raw points and is best for single assignments or unweighted grades. If your class uses weighted categories (for example, homework counts 20% and tests count 50%), use a weighted grade calculator instead. For a simple assignment or test grade, this calculator gives you an accurate percentage and letter grade instantly.
Why does my school use a different grade scale?
Grading scales vary by institution, district, and even individual instructor. Some universities use a 10-point scale (A is 90 to 100), while others use a 7-point scale (A is 93 to 100). International schools may use entirely different systems. The National Center for Education Statistics tracks grading practices across the US, but there is no single federally mandated scale. Always check your syllabus or student handbook for the exact scale used in your course.
Official sources
- National Center for Education Statistics grading indicator: Condition of Education, Indicator TGR.
Reviewed by the CalculatorHub team, edited by James Graham, 14 June 2026. See our methodology. General information only; confirm your institution's grading scale.