Difference Between CGPA and CGPI: CGPA to Percentage Calculator

When it comes to academic performance, students usually encounter several metrics to measure their progress. Two most commonly used marking systems are Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) and Cumulative Grade Point Index (CGPI). These measures are mostly used by schools and colleges to gauge the academic performance of a student.

Although both CGPA and CGPI both go to determine a student’s general academic performance, they fundamentally differ in their calculation, conversion, and application across institutions. In this article, we will dissect the distinction between CGPA and CGPI, explain their methods of calculation, examine percentage conversion formulas, and advise students on how to calculate CGPA to percentage or GPA for admission and aid eligibility.

What is CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average)?

Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) is a uniform measure of estimating the total performance of the student over two or more semesters. It is widely employed by educational institutions to assess students in different courses.

Principal Characteristics of CGPA:

• Employed to estimate a student’s performance over time.
• Computing CGPA involves dividing the total marks attained in all the subjects by the total number of subjects.
• Stated on a scale of 10 or a 4-point scale based on the institution.
• Used in higher education for evaluation purposes.

Example:
Suppose a student has obtained the following grade points in five subjects:

Subject	Grade	Points
Mathematics	A	10
Science	B+	9
English	A-	8
History	B	7
Geography	A	10

The CGPA is calculated as:

CGPA = ∑Grade Points / Total Number of Subjects

​ = (10+9+8+7+10) / 5 = 8.8

This average grade provides a student’s overall academic performance.

What is CGPI?

CGPI is another system, widely utilized in technical and professional programmes such as those of Mumbai University. It considers the credit value of courses and gives a weighted average of GPA.

Main Features of CGPI:

• Considers the credit value of courses.
• Computed on the basis of scores earned and credit hours.
• Can be found to be used in engineering and postgraduate studies.
• Gives a better overall picture of academic capacity.

What is the Difference Between CGPA and CGPI?

Both CGPA and CGPI are measures of a student’s general academic performance over a number of semesters, but they are different from each other. The table below gives the major differences:

Aspect	CGPA	CGPI
Definition	Measures academic performance based on points.	Measures academic achievement considering credits.
Calculation Basis	Calculated as follows: sum of points divided by the number of subjects.	Calculated by dividing the total points multiplied by credits by the total number of credits.
Scale	Expressed on a scale of 10 or 4-point scale.	Uses a 10-point scale.
Commonly Used In	Schools, colleges, and general degree programs.	Technical, professional, and engineering courses.
Conversion to Percentage	Typically converted using percentage formula: CGPA × 9.5.	Percentage obtained may require an official conversion certificate.

How to Calculate CGPA and CGPI for University and College Admissions?

For calculating CGPA, follow the steps below:

1. Allocate Points depending upon the grading system employed.
2. Sum up all points achieved in each subject.
3. Divide the total points by the total number of subjects.

Formula:

CGPA = ∑Grade Points / Total Number of Subjects​

To find CGPI, do the following steps:

1. Multiply every point by its corresponding credit hours.
2. Add all the results.
3. Divide by the total number of credits.

Formula:

CGPI = ∑(Grade Points×Credits) / ∑Credits​

Example:

Course	Grade	Points	Credits
Mathematics	A	10	4
Physics	B+	9	3
Chemistry	A-	8	3

Total (Grade Points × Credits) = (10×4) + (9×3) + (8×3) = 85
Total Credits = 4 + 3 + 3 = 10

CGPI = 85 / 10 = 8.5 

How to Convert CGPA to Percentage (Percentage Calculator)?

Most institutions demand percentage formulas for applications, financial aid, and graduation.

To do that and calculate the percentage from it, multiply it by a fixed factor:

Percentage = CGPA × 9.5

Example: If CGPA = 8.5, then

Percentage = 8.5 × 9.5 = 80.75% 

CGPA to GPA Conversion

Most students applying for higher learning must convert CGPA to GPA for institutions on a 4.0-point scale.

The formula differs between institutions.

CGPA (10-Point Scale)	GPA (4-Point Scale)
10.0	4.0
9.0	3.7
8.0	3.3
7.0	3.0
6.0	2.7

Note: Schools may be different in an institution’s grading scale, so always refer to the institution’s guidelines and numerical grading scales.

What is the Significance of CGPA and CGPI for Admission and Scholarships?

Institutions and employers use CGPA and CGPI in considering applicants for:

• Higher education admissions
• Financial aid and funding eligibility
• Job placements
• Internships

Good CGPA or CGPI enhances a student’s chances of becoming eligible for prestigious programs and prospects.

Top 10 Universities Abroad With CGPA Requirements

On considering higher education overseas, being aware of the CGPA or CGPI, requirements and fees is essential.

The following is a table specifying 10 colleges in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, and their approximate tuition fees per annum and minimum requirements of CGPA/CGPI for foreign students.

University	Country	Approximate Annual Tuition Fees (USD)	Minimum CGPA/CGPI Requirement
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	USA	$53,790	3.5/4.0
Stanford University	USA	$56,169	3.5/4.0
University of California, Berkeley	USA	$44,008	3.0/4.0
University of Oxford	UK	$36,800	3.7/4.0
University of Cambridge	UK	$37,500	3.7/4.0
Imperial College London	UK	$39,600	3.6/4.0
University of Toronto	Canada	$45,690	3.0/4.0
University of British Columbia	Canada	$35,418	3.0/4.0
McGill University	Canada	$18,000	3.2/4.0
University of Melbourne	Australia	$40,000	3.0/4.0

Note: The tuition fees are approximate and may differ depending on the program and academic year. CGPA/CGPI requirements are general guidelines; certain programs may have other criteria. It’s best to check the official institution websites for the most current and accurate information.

Conclusion

It is important to understand the distinction between CGPA and CGPI point scales for academic development and career planning. While CGPA gives an overall indication of a student’s academic performance, CGPI is a weighted average that considers credit hours.

For students seeking higher education, scholarships, or job opportunities, knowing how to measure, convert, and interpret these metrics is crucial. Always refer to your institution’s grading scale for accurate percentage formulas when required.

By mastering CGPA vs CGPI, students can better evaluate their performance and plan their academic journey effectively!

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