Test Score Percentage Calculator
Converting a raw test score to a percentage is one of the most common tasks in education. Whether you have just received a graded exam, are checking homework results, or are planning for a quiz, this test score percentage calculator gives you the result instantly. Enter the number of points you earned and the total number of points possible on the test, and the calculator returns your percentage score and the corresponding letter grade on the standard US scale. The US letter grade thresholds used are: A for 90 to 100, B for 80 to 89, C for 70 to 79, D for 60 to 69, and F for below 60. The calculator also shows a visual indicator of where your score falls across the scale. The formula is simply: percentage equals points earned divided by total points, multiplied by 100. Results are shown to two decimal places for precision. This tool applies to any scored assessment: tests, quizzes, homework assignments, or any points-based grading system.
Score: --% (--)
How test score percentage is calculated
Percentage = (Points Earned / Total Points) x 100
Worked example
You scored 43 out of 50 on a test:
- 43 / 50 = 0.86
- 0.86 x 100 = 86.00%
- 86% falls in the B range (80 to 89)
Standard US letter grade scale
| Percentage | Letter Grade | GPA Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 90 to 100 | A | 4.0 |
| 80 to 89 | B | 3.0 |
| 70 to 79 | C | 2.0 |
| 60 to 69 | D | 1.0 |
| Below 60 | F | 0.0 |
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert a raw test score to a percentage?
Divide your points earned by the total points possible, then multiply by 100. For example, if you scored 43 out of 50, your percentage is (43 / 50) x 100 = 86%. This is the universal formula used across all levels of education.
What letter grade is 70%?
On the standard US grading scale, 70% falls in the C range (70 to 79%). More precisely: 77 to 79% is typically C+, 73 to 76% is C, and 70 to 72% is C-. However, some instructors use a flat scale without plus/minus grades, in which case anything from 70 to 79% is simply a C.
What is a passing grade?
The standard passing threshold at most US colleges and universities is 60% (a D grade). However, many programs require a C (70%) or higher to receive credit toward a degree. Graduate programs often require a B (80%) or higher. Check your course syllabus for the specific passing threshold for your class.
Is 80% a good test score?
An 80% corresponds to a B on the standard US scale, which is generally considered a good score. It indicates solid understanding of the material. For context: A (90-100) is excellent, B (80-89) is good, C (70-79) is satisfactory, D (60-69) is passing but poor, and F (below 60) is failing.
How do teachers curve test scores?
Curving adjusts scores upward when a test was unusually difficult. Common methods include: adding a fixed number of points to all scores; scaling scores so the highest score becomes 100%; or applying a square root curve (multiplying each score by 10 and taking the square root, then multiplying by 10). This calculator shows your raw percentage before any curve is applied.
Sources
- National Center for Education Statistics: Undergraduate GPA statistics.
Reviewed by the CalculatorHub team, edited by James Graham, 14 June 2026.