UPenn Grading Scale: All You Need to Know

So you got into UPenn. Congratulations! Now it’s time to figure out how your grades actually work. From academic standing to internship opportunities, your GPA will shape a lot of your college experience. That’s why it’s important to understand the grading system from day one.

In this blog, we’ll break down how the UPenn grading scale works, what each letter grade stands for, and what it takes to maintain a strong GPA. Whether you’re vying for honors or just want to stay in good standing, this guide will help you stay on top of your performance at Penn.

• What Is the UPenn GPA Scale?
• Other Types of Grades at UPenn
• How to Get Good Grades at UPenn
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is the UPenn GPA Scale?

UPenn uses a standard letter grading system to assess student performance in each course. Grades range from A+ to F, and each letter corresponds to a numerical value used to calculate your grade point average (GPA). Unlike other universities, UPenn doesn’t include a D- in its grading scale.

Your GPA is calculated at the end of each semester and on a cumulative basis. The GPA is determined by multiplying the number of course units for each class (typically 1 course unit) by the numerical value of the grade you earned. Once all grade points are totaled, that number is divided by the total number of course units you’ve completed.

Here’s how each letter grade translates into grade points:

To remain in good academic standing and qualify for graduation, you must maintain at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA and a 2.0 GPA within your major. Some departments may set higher GPA requirements for specific courses in your major, so it’s important to check the guidelines for your program.

Note that this grading system applies only to College of Arts and Sciences students. Courses taken in other UPenn schools follow the grading rules of those individual schools.

UPenn also uses plus (+) and minus (−) suffixes to adjust the grade-point value. For example, a B+ earns more grade points than a B, while a B− earns slightly fewer.

One exception is that an A+ and an A have the same number of grade points, meaning the highest GPA you can earn in a course at UPenn is 4.0. On the other hand, receiving an F means you failed the course and earned 0.0 grade points.

Other Types of Grades at UPenn

UPenn’s grading scale includes more than just the standard A–F system. In some cases, students may receive special grades such as Pass (Pass), W (Withdrawal), or NR (No Grade Reported).

These grades are used for specific situations and can offer flexibility if you meet certain requirements. Knowing what they mean and when they apply can help you manage your courses more effectively and avoid unexpected marks on your transcript.

Let’s take a closer look at each one:

Pass/Fail (P/F) grades

At UPenn, you can choose to take some classes on a pass/fail basis instead of earning a traditional letter grade. If you pass the course, you’ll see a “P” (Pass) on your transcript. This gives you credit toward graduation but doesn’t affect your GPA. If you get an “F” (Fail), that stays on your record and counts as 0.0 grade points, which will lower your GPA.

When you register for classes, you decide whether to take a course for a letter grade or as pass/fail. If you choose pass/fail and earn any grade above an F, including a D, the instructor will still record the letter grade, but the Registrar’s Office will change it to a “P” on your transcript. Professors aren’t told which students are taking the class pass/fail, so your choice won’t influence how they grade your work.

Now, there are specific rules for when you can use pass/fail. You can’t take courses this way if they’re being used to meet Foundational Approach Requirements, Sector Requirements, major requirements, or minor requirements.

You’re also limited to a maximum of eight course units (c.u.) on a pass/fail basis during your time at UPenn, although the College recommends taking fewer. You can switch a class from letter grading to pass/fail, or vice versa, until the end of the ninth week of the semester or just before Advance Registration. The exact deadline is listed in the Academic Calendar.

If you’re a first-year student, the College strongly recommends choosing letter grades instead of pass/fail until you have adjusted to the workload and expectations at UPenn.

Incompletes (I)

An “I” (Incomplete) can be given if you’ve been doing well in a course but, for a serious and valid reason, can’t finish all the work by the end of the term. The decision is entirely up to your instructor, so you’d need to discuss it directly with them.

Requesting an Incomplete should be rare. In most cases, it’s better to plan ahead, ask for help early, and use the academic resources available so you can submit your work on time.

If you’re granted an Incomplete, you have until the end of the fourth full week of the next term to finish the remaining tasks. If you miss that deadline, the “I” automatically becomes an “F.”

Having multiple Incompletes can cause bigger problems than you might expect. If you have two or more, you could be placed on a Mandatory Leave of Absence. Incompletes can also slow down the number of credits you earn. They may affect financial aid, athletic eligibility, visa status if you’re an international student, or your chances for academic honors.

Withdrawals (W)

You can withdraw from a course anytime up to the end of the 11th week of the semester, as long as you have your instructor’s permission. A W (Withdrawal) doesn’t affect your GPA, but it does show that you started the class and chose not to complete it. You must resolve any incomplete grades before graduation, but a “W” will remain a record of the withdrawal.

Keep in mind that these petitions can be denied, so approval is never guaranteed. It’s also important to understand the risks of being under-enrolled, such as falling below full-time status. Before deciding, talk with your instructor and advisor to understand the impact of withdrawing.

No Grade Reported (NR)

An “NR” (No Grade Reported) means that no grade has been submitted for a course. If you see this on your transcript, you should follow up with your instructor and the College Office to resolve it.

This notation can remain on your record only until the end of the first month of the following semester. If your work is still unfinished and no grade has been submitted by then, the “NR” will automatically become an “F.” You can’t graduate with an NR on your transcript, so addressing it as soon as possible is important.

How to Get Good Grades at UPenn

At UPenn, academic success requires discipline, strategy, and full use of the university’s resources. Rigorous courses and high expectations demand strong time management, active class participation, and meaningful engagement with professors and peers.

The most successful students approach learning with curiosity, persistence, and adaptability—qualities that not only lead to good grades but also reflect UPenn’s core values. Here are some key steps to succeed at UPenn:

1. Know UPenn’s GPA-related policies.

Before classes even start, take time to understand what “good academic standing” actually means at UPenn. Each undergraduate school has its own GPA-related policies, and if you’re enrolled in more than one, you’ll need to meet the standards for both.

• In the College of Arts and Sciences, you need to keep at least a 2.0 GPA (both per semester and overall), complete six units across two straight semesters (not counting summer), and avoid more than one F or Incomplete per term.
• The School of Engineering and Applied Science adds a twist: your GPA needs to be 2.0 both overall and in your major courses (math, science, engineering). You must also complete at least eight units per academic year to stay on track.
• In the School of Nursing, a 2.0 GPA is still the minimum, but you also have to stay enrolled continuously (or get an approved leave), avoid incomplete grades, and make sure you’re not on financial hold. If you fail a required course, you can only repeat it once and can’t move forward until you pass it.
• Finally, at The Wharton School, a GPA under 2.0 or more than one F in a semester means probation. Two semesters below a 2.0, or one below 1.5, can trigger a Drop Warning.

These rules can affect everything from registration holds to graduation timelines. Learn your school’s policies early so you can maintain a strong GPA and stay in good standing throughout your time at Penn.

2. Choose courses strategically.

Each semester, aim for a course mix that challenges you without overwhelming your schedule. A heavy load of advanced STEM or writing-intensive classes might sound impressive, but it’s easy to burn out if you’re unrealistic about your limits.

Before registering, use Penn Course Review to check ratings on difficulty, workload, and professor style. It’s one of the best tools to help you pick classes that match your goals and learning style.

If you’re struggling early in the term, take advantage of the add/drop period and don’t wait until you’re deep into the semester to make changes. Dropping a course or switching sections might be the best move for your mental health and GPA. Pay attention to deadlines and speak with your advisor when you feel uncertain.

UPenn also allows you to take some classes pass/fail, but remember that while a passing grade won’t count toward your GPA, a failing one will. Also, if you fail a required course or prerequisite, you’ll have to retake it before moving forward. That can delay your graduation timeline, so be strategic with every course you choose.

3. Make the most of available resources.

UPenn has plenty of academic resources, and you should absolutely use them. Whether adjusting to the college workload or aiming for straight A’s, these services can help you stay on top of your performance. The earlier you seek support, the easier it is to stay ahead.

For example, the Weingarten Center offers a variety of academic support services, including tutoring, workshops, and learning consultations. It also provides Disability Services for students who self-identify with a disability, offering individualized accommodations and learning strategies.

Your academic advisor is also an important resource. They can help you make thoughtful choices about classes, majors, and graduation requirements. If you’re unsure how a pass/fail decision or a course withdrawal might impact your degree plan, talk to them first.

4. Build good study habits.

Good study habits make a huge difference in your academic life at UPenn. They help you manage your time, understand your coursework better, and reduce stress.

Start by carving out regular study blocks that fit your weekly schedule. Choose a quiet, distraction-free space, and once you’ve created that structure, stick to it as best you can.

From there, focus on how you study. Taking effective notes can boost your understanding and save you time later. Instead of writing everything down, look for patterns, key terms, and repeated concepts. Then rewrite them in your own words to help lock them in.

Mind maps are another great option, especially if you’re a visual learner. These diagrams help you organize your thoughts, connect ideas, and simplify complex concepts. Use colors and symbols to make them even more memorable.

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of brain breaks. Breaking up your study time into shorter, focused chunks gives your brain space to process information. Even a 10-minute pause to move around or recharge can improve your focus and retention.

5. Take care of yourself!

You won’t do your best work if you’re constantly exhausted or burned out. Academic success is tied to your physical and mental well-being, so make time to care for both.

Start with the basics: eat nutritious meals, get enough sleep, and stay physically active. Regular movement, whether it’s a dance class, playing sports, or a simple walk through campus, can reduce stress and improve your overall mood.

Sleep is just as important. Chronic sleep deprivation affects memory, learning, and emotional regulation, so make sure you’re well-rested, especially during high-stress weeks like midterms or finals, when your brain needs to function at its best.

Remember to make time for things you enjoy. Whether joining fun activities like karaoke night or relaxing with a good book, doing what makes you feel grounded will support your mental health and help you recharge.

If things ever feel overwhelming, it’s okay to ask for help. Student Health and Counseling offers mental health support services and trained counselors who can guide you through difficult moments. Taking care of yourself isn’t optional but essential to thriving at UPenn.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the UPenn GPA scale?

The UPenn GPA scale uses letter grades from A+ to F, with no D-. Each letter grade is worth a set number of grade points, with both A+ and A equal to 4.0. Your GPA is the average of these points across all the courses you’ve taken.

2. What do the letter grades stand for at UPenn?

Letter grades at UPenn reflect a student’s performance relative to course expectations. An A typically means excellent performance, B is good, C is satisfactory, D is poor but passing, and F is failing. Each letter corresponds to a numerical value on the 4.0 GPA scale.

3. Is it hard to get a good GPA at UPenn?

Yes, maintaining a high GPA at UPenn can be challenging due to rigorous coursework and competitive peers. However, strong time management, study habits, and using academic support resources can help you succeed.

Takeaways

• UPenn uses a 4.0 GPA scale with letter grades and plus/minus distinctions. For example, both A and A+ count as 4.0, while a B- is 2.7, and an F is 0.0.
• To stay in good standing, most schools at UPenn require a minimum 2.0 GPA. Falling below that or earning more than one F in a semester can result in academic probation.
• UPenn’s academic culture is rigorous, but support is available. Talk to your academic advisor for guidance, or visit the Weingarten Center for free tutoring to stay on track.
• Want to be a UPenn student? An admissions expert can help you refine your essays, showcase your strengths, and stand out in a competitive applicant pool.