The Exam Grade Calculator converts raw exam points into a percentage and estimates a letter grade from customizable cutoff values. It also shows points missed and the additional points needed to reach the next entered threshold.
Use it after receiving an exam score, while checking a practice test, or when planning a regrade request. Because letter-grade boundaries differ by school and instructor, the calculator lets you enter the minimum percentages for A, B, C, and D rather than assuming one universal scale.
1. Enter the raw score
Provide points earned and total points possible.
2. Set the grading scale
Enter the minimum percentages for A, B, C, and D in descending order.
3. Review the percentage
The main result converts the raw score to a percentage.
4. Check the letter grade
The entered cutoffs determine the displayed grade band.
5. Use the threshold gap
See how many additional raw points would reach the next band.
Exam percentage = Points earned ÷ Points possible × 100
Points needed for a cutoff = Cutoff % × Points possible − Points earned
The letter grade is assigned by comparing the calculated percentage with the entered minimum cutoffs. The model uses straight thresholds and does not include plus/minus grades, curves, or instructor-specific rounding unless reflected in your inputs.
The percentage is the share of available exam points earned; the letter is based only on the cutoffs entered.
Confirm the official grading scale before treating the letter grade as final.
Given: 82 points out of 100 with cutoffs of 90% for A, 80% for B, 70% for C, and 60% for D.
Calculation: Exam percentage = 82 ÷ 100 × 100 = 82%. Since 82% is at least 80% but below 90%, the grade is B. Points to an A = 0.90 × 100 − 82 = 8.
Result: The exam grade is 82% (B), eight points below the entered A threshold.
The page reports broad A–F bands. Use the percentage result and compare it with your syllabus for plus or minus grades.
Enter decimals when allowed; the calculator accepts fractional points.
It compares the unrounded percentage with the cutoffs, then displays the percentage rounded to two decimals.
Adjust the earned score or cutoffs only if the instructor has announced the curve. Otherwise the result is the uncurved raw grade.
An A minimum should not be below a B minimum. Descending cutoffs prevent overlapping or contradictory grade bands.