⚡ Quick Answer: What Is a 4.33 GPA Scale?
The 4.33 GPA scale is an expanded unweighted grading system that rewards an A+ grade with 4.33 grade points instead of capping at 4.00. This scale is commonly used by institutions such as Columbia University, Cornell University, Arizona State University, and the Law School Admission Council (LSAC).
4.33 Scale vs. Standard 4.0 Scale: What’s the Difference?
On the standard 4.0 GPA scale, both an A and an A+ are awarded 4.0 points. On the 4.33 scale, students who earn exceptional grades (97%+) receive a 0.33 bonus for each A+, allowing cumulative GPAs to exceed 4.00 on an unweighted transcript.
Calculate your GPA with both standard and weighted options using our GPA Calculator.
Complete 4.33 GPA Conversion Chart
| Letter Grade | Percentage Range | 4.33 Scale Points | Standard 4.0 Scale Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| A+ | 97 – 100% | 4.33 | 4.00 |
| A | 93 – 96% | 4.00 | 4.00 |
| A- | 90 – 92% | 3.67 / 3.70 | 3.70 |
| B+ | 87 – 89% | 3.33 | 3.30 |
| B | 83 – 86% | 3.00 | 3.00 |
| B- | 80 – 82% | 2.67 / 2.70 | 2.70 |
| C+ | 77 – 79% | 2.33 | 2.30 |
| C | 73 – 76% | 2.00 | 2.00 |
| D | 65 – 69% | 1.00 | 1.00 |
| F | Below 60% | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Law School Admission (LSAC) & 4.33 Scale
The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) calculates an applicant’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS) GPA using the 4.33 scale if the candidate’s undergraduate institution awards A+ grades on transcripts. This allows top-tier applicants to apply with GPAs higher than 4.00, providing an advantage during law school admissions.
Learn more about how universities review high academic standing in our Weighted vs Unweighted GPA Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get higher than a 4.0 GPA unweighted?
Yes, if your school operates on the 4.33 scale and awards A+ grades (which count as 4.33 grade points), your unweighted GPA can exceed 4.00.
Does an A+ matter on a 4.0 scale?
On a standard 4.0 scale, an A+ and an A both receive 4.00 quality points, so an A+ will not increase your numerical GPA beyond 4.00. However, it demonstrates academic mastery on your official transcript.