May 9, 2025

What Is GPA? A Simple Guide for International Students

Everything You Need to Know About GPA in University and Why It’s Key for Getting a Scholarship in the US

If you’re aiming for a sports scholarship in the US, you’ve probably seen the term GPA. But what does it mean? This simple guide breaks it down for you!

If you’re planning to study in the United States on a scholarship, you’ve probably seen the word GPA everywhere. But what is GPA in university, and why is it important? Here, we explain it in a simple way!

What Is GPA?

GPA stands for Grade Point Average. It’s a number that shows how well you are doing in your classes. In the US, instead of just using percentages or marks, universities calculate a GPA to summarise your grades.

For every class you take, you earn a grade, and your GPA is the average of all those grades.

GPA makes it easier for universities and coaches to quickly see how you’re performing in school, no matter where you come from.

GPA is usually on a scale of 0 to 4.0, where:

4.0 = excellent (A or A+)

3.0 = good (B)

2.0 = average (C)

1.0 = poor (D)

Below 1.0 = failing (F)

So, the higher your GPA, the better your grades overall.

Why Is GPA Important in University?

For international student-athletes, GPA is very important for a few key reasons:

University admission – Universities want to make sure you can handle their academic programmes. Your GPA tells them if you’re ready.

Eligibility for sports – To compete in leagues like the NCAA or NAIA, you need to meet minimum GPA requirements.

Sports scholarships – Many scholarships look at both athletic performance and academic achievement. A strong GPA can open more doors!

Even if you’re a top athlete, a low GPA might hurt your chances of getting into your dream school or receiving financial aid.

How to Calculate GPA

GPA is worked out by turning your grades into numbers and calculating the average. It’s done the same way in university as in secondary school. Here’s how it works:

Give each grade a point value → A = 4, B = 3, C = 2, D = 1, F = 0.
Add up all the points.
Divide by the number of classes.

Some schools use a “weighted GPA” if you take advanced or honours courses, giving extra points for tougher classes.

At Keystone Sports, our team helps you understand your academic record and converts your grades to the GPA format.

What Is a Good GPA for Getting a Sports Scholarship?

Different universities and sports associations have different GPA requirements, but here’s a general guide:

3.5–4.0 → You’ll have a wide range of scholarship options.

3.0–3.4 → You’re in a strong position with many opportunities.

2.5–2.9 → You may qualify, but choices might be a bit more limited.

Below 2.5 → You may need extra academic support or to focus on specific universities and divisions.

Not sure what your options are? Keystone Sports is here to guide you. We work closely with you to find universities that match your GPA and athletic level, negotiate top scholarship offers, and give advice on improving your GPA before applying.

Fill out our free evaluation and let our experts help you find your best path.

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About the author

Lorena Montañés

Lorena Montañés, SEO Specialist at Keystone Sports, played DI football at California State University, Fresno, while earning degrees in Mass Communication & Journalism and Psychology. She later earned an MBA in Business Analytics while coaching at a Division II university. Now, her goal is to encourage other student-athletes to pursue their dreams and have a life-changing experience.