The University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) uses a letter-based grading system to evaluate student performance. This system is similar to the grading scales used by most other colleges and universities in the United States.
Grading Scale
| Grade | Numerical Value | Percentage Range |
|---|---|---|
| A | 4.0 | 93-100% |
| A- | 3.67 | 90-92% |
| B+ | 3.33 | 87-89% |
| B | 3.0 | 83-86% |
| B- | 2.67 | 80-82% |
| C+ | 2.33 | 77-79% |
| C | 2.0 | 73-76% |
| C- | 1.67 | 70-72% |
| D+ | 1.33 | 67-69% |
| D | 1.0 | 63-66% |
| D- | 0.67 | 60-62% |
| F | 0.0 | Below 60% |
GPA Calculation
Your GPA (Grade Point Average) is calculated by multiplying the numerical value of each grade by the number of credits associated with the course, and then dividing the sum of these products by the total number of credits.
For example:
If you earn a B+ in a 3-credit course, your GPA is:
(3.33 * 3) / 3 = 3.33
Grade Distribution
According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the average GPA for UMass Amherst undergraduates is 3.2. The distribution of grades is as follows:
- A: 42.5%
- B: 34.1%
- C: 18.6%
- D: 4.2%
- F: 0.6%
Grading Policies
UMass Amherst has a number of grading policies that affect how grades are calculated. These policies include:
- Plus/Minus Grading: UMass Amherst uses a plus/minus grading system, which allows for more precise evaluation of student performance.
- Pass/Fail Option: Students can opt to take certain courses on a pass/fail basis, which means they will receive a P (pass) or F (fail) grade.
- Incomplete Grades: Incomplete grades are given to students who have not completed all of the work for a course by the end of the semester.
- Withdrawal Grades: Withdrawal grades are given to students who withdraw from a course before the end of the semester.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips for succeeding in your classes at UMass Amherst:
- Attend class regularly: Attending class is one of the best ways to stay on top of the material and prepare for exams.
- Participate in class: Participating in class can help you learn the material more effectively and engage with the professor.
- Study outside of class: Studying outside of class is essential for success in college. Make sure you spend enough time studying each week.
- Get help when you need it: If you’re struggling in a class, don’t be afraid to get help from the professor, a tutor, or a study group.
Conclusion
The UMass Amherst grading scale is a fair and transparent system that provides students with a clear understanding of their academic progress. By following the tips for success outlined in this article, you can improve your grades and reach your academic goals.