Final Grade Calculator

Find out exactly what score you need on your final exam to finish the course with the grade you want. Enter three numbers and get your answer instantly.

What do I need on my final exam? Final Exam
%
Your grade before the final exam
%
How much the final counts toward your grade
%
How the final grade formula works
The formula used by this calculator:
Required Final Score = (Target Grade − Current Grade × (1 − Final Weight)) ÷ Final Weight

For example: Current grade = 82%, Final weight = 30%, Target = 90% (A−)

Required = (0.90 − 0.82 × 0.70) ÷ 0.30 = (0.90 − 0.574) ÷ 0.30 = 0.326 ÷ 0.30 = 108.7% — which means an A− is no longer achievable.

Frequently asked questions
What if the score needed is over 100%? ›
If the calculator shows you need more than 100%, that target grade is mathematically impossible based on your current grade and the exam's weight. You should aim for the next lower grade target instead. Use the scenario table to see which grades are still within reach.
How do I find my final exam weight? ›
Check your course syllabus — it will list the percentage each component is worth. Common final exam weights are 20%, 25%, 30%, and 40%. If your syllabus lists it as a fraction (like 1/3), convert it: 1/3 ≈ 33%.
My professor curves grades — does this calculator account for that? ›
No — this calculator uses the standard weighted average formula without curves. If your professor applies a curve, your actual required score may be lower than shown. It is always safer to calculate without assuming a curve and treat any curve as a bonus.
What if my final exam is worth more than my current grade weight combined? ›
If your final exam weight is very high (e.g., 50%+), a strong performance on it can dramatically change your grade. Conversely, a poor performance can hurt you significantly. This calculator correctly handles any exam weight from 1% to 100%.
Can I use this calculator for midterm exams too? ›
Yes! This calculator works for any upcoming exam or assignment. Just enter your current grade, the weight of the upcoming assignment, and your target grade. The formula is the same regardless of whether it is a midterm, quiz, or project.

About this final grade calculator

Students across the country use our final grade calculator at the end of every semester to figure out exactly what they need to earn on their final exam. Whether you're trying to maintain an A, pull your grade up from a C, or simply find out if passing is still possible — this tool gives you the exact number.

Understanding your options

If the score you need is between 0–79%, you're in great shape. A score of 80–89% means you'll need to study hard but it's very achievable. If you need 90–100%, you'll need to perform at your very best. If the calculator shows over 100%, that grade target is no longer possible — but you can still aim for the next grade down.

What to do if you need a very high score

First, confirm your calculations are correct by double-checking your current grade and the final's weight with your syllabus. Then speak with your professor — some offer extra credit opportunities or may clarify grading details you weren't aware of. Finally, plan your study time strategically, focusing on the topics most likely to appear on the exam.

Related tools

Once you know your final grade, use our GPA Calculator to see how it affects your overall GPA, or use our Grade Calculator to see exactly where you stand across all your courses this semester.