What Score Do I Need on My Final Exam?

As the semester winds down, the stress of finals sets in. The most common question among students is: "What grade do I need on my final exam to pass or get an A?" The answer depends on your current class grade, your desired grade, and how much the final exam is worth in your syllabus.

The Final Exam Target Equation

Calculating the score you need on a final exam utilizes a weighted average algebraic formula:

*Note: Ensure the weight is written as a decimal (e.g. 20% = 0.20).

Manually Calculating Your Goal

To compute this manually, multiply your current grade by the weight of semester work (e.g. if the final is 25%, semester work is 75%, so multiply by 0.75). Subtract this value from your desired grade, and then divide by the exam weight decimal (0.25).

To save time and prevent math errors, simply use our interactive Final Grade Calculator Tool.