Calculate what grade you need on your final exam to achieve your desired course grade. Enter your current grade, desired grade, and final exam weight to find out the required score.
Your grade before the final exam
Your target final course grade
Percentage of total grade
Enter your current course grade (before the final exam), your desired final course grade, and the weight percentage of your final exam. The calculator will determine what score you need on the final exam to achieve your target grade. This final exam calculator helps you set realistic study goals and understand what performance is required.
The required final exam score is calculated using the weighted average formula. Your final course grade is the sum of your current grade weighted by its percentage and your final exam grade weighted by its percentage.
Required Final Score = (Desired Grade - Current Grade × (1 - Final Weight)) ÷ Final Weight
Or step by step:
All percentages should be expressed as decimals in the formula (e.g., 30% = 0.30).
Let's say you have an 88% current grade, want to achieve a 90% final grade, and your final exam is worth 30% of your total grade:
Step 1: Calculate current work weight
100% - 30% = 70%
Step 2: Calculate weighted current grade
88 × 0.70 = 61.6
Step 3: Calculate points needed from final
90 - 61.6 = 28.4
Step 4: Calculate required final exam score
28.4 ÷ 0.30 = 94.67%
You need to score approximately 95% on your final exam to achieve a 90% course grade.
Final exam weights vary by course and institution. Here are typical ranges:
Always check your course syllabus for the exact final exam weight used in your class.
Your desired grade is achievable. Focus your study efforts on the topics most likely to appear on the final exam.
Your desired grade may not be mathematically possible. Consider adjusting your target grade or speaking with your instructor about extra credit opportunities.
You've already achieved your desired grade! You could theoretically score 0% on the final and still meet your target, though it's always best to perform well.
Once you know what grade you need, use these strategies to prepare effectively:
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