Not all universities use percentages to show marks. Many now use CGPA, which stands for Cumulative Grade Point Average. While CGPA is useful for tracking overall performance, sometimes you need your score in percentage. This can happen when applying for jobs, further studies, scholarships, or government exams.

So, how do you convert CGPA to percentage? It depends on the grading scale your college or university follows. This guide will explain it in a simple way.

What Is CGPA?

CGPA is a number that shows your average performance in all subjects. Instead of marks out of 100, universities give grades. These grades are converted to points. Then those points are averaged to get your CGPA.

Different institutes use different scales. The most common ones are:

• 10-point scale (common in India)

• 5-point scale

• 4-point scale (used in some international colleges)

Before converting your CGPA, you must know what scale your university follows.

Why Convert CGPA to Percentage?

Many companies and government bodies still ask for your score in percentage. Some universities also need percentage marks when you apply for a new course.

If your result only shows CGPA, then you’ll need to convert it before applying.

Also, when filling online forms, many ask: "Enter percentage marks." In such cases, you need to calculate it correctly. Guessing is not a good idea.

Common Formulas to Convert CGPA to Percentage

There is no single universal formula. The formula depends on your grading scale and the rules set by your university or board. Below are some standard methods used in India and abroad.

1. 10-Point Grading Scale

This is the most common scale used in Indian schools and colleges.

Formula: Percentage = CGPA × 9.5

Example:
If your CGPA is 8.2
→ 8.2 × 9.5 = 77.9%

This formula is officially used by CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education).

2. 4-Point Grading Scale

Used in many US and international universities.

Formula: Percentage = (CGPA / 4) × 100

Example:
If your CGPA is 3.4
→ (3.4 / 4) × 100 = 85%

3. 5-Point Grading Scale

Formula: Percentage = (CGPA / 5) × 100

Example:
If your CGPA is 4.1
→ (4.1 / 5) × 100 = 82%

What If My University Uses a Different Formula?

Some universities have their own method. For example:

• Anna University uses a fixed table to convert grades to marks.

• Mumbai University uses the formula: (CGPA - 0.75) × 10

• JNTU has a unique system based on internal and external marks.

Always check your official marksheet or university website. If it lists a formula, use that. Don’t follow a general formula if your college uses a different one.

How to Find Out Your University’s Scale

If you’re not sure which grading system your college uses:

• Look at your marksheet or transcript.

• Check the student handbook or university website.

• Ask your teacher or academic office.

Final Advice

Don’t estimate your percentage. Always use the correct method. If you use the wrong formula, it might affect your job or college application.