GPA and Grades Information
STLCC students are assigned letter grades for the courses in which they are enrolled. See the explanations below to understand what each grade means and how it may affect your GPA.
Understanding Letter Grades and GPA
Your GPA (Grade Point Average) shows how well you’re doing in your classes. It’s calculated by multiplying the grade points for each class by the number of credits, then dividing by the total credits.
| Letter Grade | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| A – Excellent | 4 grade points |
In a 3-credit hour class, earning an "A" gives you 12 grade points (3 × 4 = 12). If this is your only class, your GPA is 4.0 (12 ÷ 3 = 4.0). |
| B – Above Average | 3 grade points |
In a 3-credit class, earning a "B" gives you 9 grade points (3 × 3 = 9). If this is your only class, your GPA is 3.0 (9 ÷ 3 = 3.0). |
| C – Average | 2 grade points |
In a 3-credit class, earning a "C" gives you 6 grade points (3 × 2 = 6). If this is your only class, your GPA is 2.0 (6 ÷ 3 = 2.0). |
| D – Below Average | 1 grade point |
In a 3-credit class, earning a "D" gives you 3 grade points (3 × 1 = 3). If this is your only class, your GPA is 1.0 (3 ÷ 3 = 1.0). NOTE: Students with 6 or more credit hours and a GPA below 2.0 will be placed on Academic Probation. Some programs consider a "D" unsatisfactory. Check the course catalog to see if your program allows "D" grades. |
| F – Failing | 0 grade points |
In a 3-credit class, earning an "F" gives you 0 grade points. If this is your only class, your GPA is 0.0 (0 ÷ 3 = 0.0). NOTE: Students with 6 or more credit hours and a GPA below 2.0 will be placed on Academic Probation. The best way to increase your GPA to recover from a failing grade is by repeating the course. The latest attempt of the repeated course will be calculated into the GPA, and the prior attempt(s) will be excluded from the GPA, but still appear on the transcript as part of the permanent record. |
Special Grades
These grades indicate unique situations like incompletes or withdrawals. They may not affect your GPA but can impact your academic record.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| I – Incomplete |
An “I” grade is given when a student has finished most of the course but, for an approved reason, cannot complete all work on time. Students must finish the remaining work within the timeframe set by the instructor, usually up to one year, using a written agreement that outlines what needs to be done, how it will be graded and the deadline. Once all work is completed, the instructor will update the grade. If the work isn’t finished within one year, the “I” becomes a permanent F. Extensions may be granted with the instructor’s approval, and the department chair ensures all remaining work is evaluated if the instructor leaves STLCC. |
| PR – Progress, Re-Enroll |
This grade may be given when a student makes progress in a course but doesn’t finish the minimum required work, if the instructor allows it and the course permits PR grades. A "PR" grade does not earn credits and does not affect GPA. Students can retake the course, but tuition must be paid again. |
| R – Credit for Prior Learning |
This grade shows you earned credit through an exam or prior learning assessment. It does not count toward the residency requirement for graduation. Learn more on the Credit for Prior Learning page. |
| T – Audit |
A “T” grade means the student is auditing the course, not earning credit. This grade does not affect GPA. Auditing students must still pay tuition, meet prerequisites and follow course requirements. Changes between audit and credit must be made during the 50% refund period. |
| TR - Transfer Coursework |
Transfer grades indicate courses you completed at another school that STLCC has approved for credit. While these grades don’t count toward your GPA, the credits can be applied to your degree if the courses meet STLCC program requirements. The following codes indicate the letter grade earned at the previous school:
TR was the older code for transfer credit. Starting Summer 2024, the new letter-specific codes are used. |
| S - Satisfactory |
A grade of “S” (Satisfactory) means you earned credit for the course. These credits count toward your degree, but they don’t affect your GPA. Only courses specifically approved by the College can give grades of "S" or "U" (Unsatisfactory). |
| U - Unsatisfactory |
A grade of "U" (Unsatisfactory) means you did not earn credit for the course. It doesn’t affect your GPA. Only courses specifically approved by the College can give grades of "S" (Satisfactory) or "U". |
| W – Withdrawal |
Student officially withdraws from a course after the add/drop period but before the withdrawal deadline. Does not affect GPA, but excessive withdrawals may impact academic standing or financial aid eligibility. |
Frequently Asked Questions About GPA and Credits
Confused about your grades? Find answers to common questions students have.
What is a GPA?
GPA stands for Grade Point Average. It’s a numerical way to measure your overall academic performance. Each letter grade is assigned a point value (e.g., A = 4.0, B = 3.0), and your GPA is the average of these points across all courses.
How is my GPA calculated?
To calculate your GPA, multiply the grade points for each class by the number of credit hours the course is worth. Add those totals together, then divide by the total number of credit hours.
For example, let's say you earned the following grades at the end of a semester.
| Course | Grade | Grade Points | Credit Hours | Total Points (Points × Credit Hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG 101 | A | 4.0 | 3 | 12 |
| PSY 200 | B | 3.0 | 3 | 9 |
| MTH 140 | C | 2.0 | 4 | 8 |
| HIS 101 | A | 4.0 | 3 | 12 |
| Total | 13 | 41 |
Here is how you would calculate your GPA:
Step 1: Multiply the grade points for each class by number of credit hours.
Step 2: Add total points = 12 + 9 + 8 + 12 = 41
Step 2: Add total credits = 3 + 3 + 4 + 3 = 13
Step 3: Divide total points by total credits = 41 ÷ 13 = 3.15 GPA
Your GPA would be 3.15.
What is the difference between GPA and credit hours?
GPA measures your academic performance, while credit hours measure how much coursework you’ve completed. Credits count toward graduation, but your GPA is calculated using the grades earned in those courses.
What is a cumulative GPA vs. semester GPA?
Semester GPA: The GPA for courses completed in a single semester.
Cumulative GPA: The overall GPA that includes all courses completed at the college.
How do transfer credits affect my GPA?
Transfer credits can count toward your degree but do not affect your GPA. Only grades earned at STLCC will factor into your GPA.
Should I retake a class I failed?
Yes. One of the most effective ways to raise your GPA is to repeat a course where you previously earned a below-average or failing grade.
When you retake a course:
- Only the most recent grade counts toward your GPA.
- Previous attempts are excluded from the GPA calculation but remain on your transcript as part of your permanent record.
Is a "W" better than an "F"?
Yes. Withdrawing from a course is often better for your GPA than earning a failing grade. Poor grades can significantly lower your GPA, so if you are struggling, it is important to consult your instructor before the Withdrawal Deadline to discuss your options and determine the best course of action.
How can I improve my grades?
Here are some helpful tips to increase your grades:
- Focus on courses with improvement potential: Concentrate on classes where your efforts can significantly impact your GPA, including retaking courses with low grades.
- Seek academic support: Meet with advisors, instructors or tutors for guidance. STLCC offers free tutoring in many subjects, including math and writing.
- Manage your workload: Create a balanced schedule that allows enough time for studying, assignments and exam preparation.
- Use effective study strategies: Take thorough notes, review material regularly and engage in active learning.
- Monitor progress: Track grades throughout the semester and seek help early to avoid poor outcomes.
I'm struggling with my classes. Can I get help with improving my GPA?
Yes. STLCC offers free tutoring and academic support for all students. You can drop in or schedule an appointment with friendly tutors who can help with study strategies, math tutoring, writing assignments and more.
Visit the Academic Success & Tutoring Services page to learn more.
What GPA do I need to graduate?
To graduate from STLCC, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (equivalent to a “C” average) in all credit-bearing courses.
Certain programs, such as health sciences or technical programs, may require a higher GPA for graduation. Be sure to review program-specific requirements with your academic advisor.
Does GPA affect scholarships or financial aid?
Yes, many scholarships and financial aid programs require you to maintain a certain GPA. Falling below it could impact your eligibility.
Can I see my GPA on my transcript?
Yes, your GPA is listed on your official transcript along with your grades for each course.