How the conversion works
Proportional scaling assumes your score sits at the same percentage of your original scale's maximum, then finds the equivalent point on the target scale's maximum.
- score — your GPA or grade on the original scale
- original max — the maximum of your current scale (4.5, 4.3, 4.0, or 100)
- target max — the maximum of the scale you're converting to
More detail
Why proportional scaling isn't official
A 4.0 on a 4.5 scale represents a different percentile of students than a 4.0 on a 4.0 scale — grading distributions differ by school. Proportional scaling is a reasonable estimate, but graduate schools and credential evaluators (like WES) often use their own lookup tables instead of a straight ratio. When a specific target requires an official conversion, use their published table, not this calculator.
Before you submit. If you're applying abroad, check whether the receiving institution wants a self-calculated conversion or your official transcript's own percentage/scale — many prefer the transcript's native number over any converted estimate.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert a 4.5-scale GPA to 4.0?
Divide your GPA by 4.5, then multiply by 4.0. For example, 4.0 on a 4.5 scale converts to about 3.56 on a 4.0 scale — enter your exact numbers above for a precise result.
Is this the same conversion WES uses?
Not necessarily. WES and similar credential evaluators often use their own institution- or country-specific conversion tables rather than a straight proportion. This calculator only does proportional scaling — check the evaluator's published methodology for an official conversion.
Why do Korean universities use a 4.5 scale?
Korean universities commonly grade on a 4.5 or 4.3 maximum, while U.S. institutions typically use 4.0. Converting lets you present a comparable number on applications, though the receiving school may still ask for the original scale too.
What if my score is above the scale I'm converting from?
The result shows "—" instead of a number, since a score above its stated maximum usually means the wrong "original scale" was selected — double-check which maximum your transcript actually uses.