Canada Grading System | GPA, Letter Grades & Percentages

Understanding the Canada grading system is essential for students, parents, and international applicants. While Canadian universities and schools share similar academic standards, grading scales can vary by province and even by institution. This article explains GPA, letter grades, percentage conversions, and provides important resources so you can understand how grades work in Canada.

1. Overview of the Canada Grading System

In Canada, academic performance is commonly measured using:

• Letter Grades (A+, A, B, etc.)

• Percentages (0–100%)

• Grade Point Averages (GPA)

Most Canadian universities use a 4.0 GPA scale, but some use 4.33, 9.0, or even 10.0/12.0 systems. These variations are important to understand, especially if you’re applying for scholarships, graduate programs, or transferring credits.
Learn more on Wikipedia

2. Letter Grades and Percentage Equivalents by Province

While there is no single national standard, here are some examples:

Alberta

• A+: 90–100%

• A: 85–89%

• B: 70–79%

• F: 0–49%

British Columbia (Grades 10–12)

• A: 86–100%

• B: 73–85%

• C+: 67–72%

• F: below 50%

Ontario

• Level 4 (A): 80%+

• Level 3 (B): 70–79%

• Level 2 (C): 60–69%

• Level 1 (D): 50–59%

Saskatchewan

• A+: 90–100%

• A: 80–89%

• B: 70–79%

• F: below 50%

For a full breakdown of each province’s grading scale, visit Academic grading in Canada.

3. GPA Scales Used in Canada

4.0 Scale (Most Common)

4.33 Scale

Some universities (e.g., University of British Columbia) use A+ = 4.33, giving a slight edge to top students.

9.0 Scale

Mostly used by select Canadian institutions:

• A+ = 9.0

• A = 8.5

• B+ = 8.0

• F = 0.0

10.0 / 12.0 Scales

Used at certain universities like the University of Ottawa:

• A+ = 10 (or 12)

• A = 9 (or 11)

• F = 0

See more GPA variations

4. How to Calculate Your GPA

1. Convert your percentage or letter grade to grade points (based on your institution’s scale).

2. Multiply grade points by the course’s credit hours.

3. Add all results together.

4. Divide by the total credit hours to get your GPA.

For a step-by-step guide, check Indeed’s GPA guide.

5. Why Understanding the Grading System Matters

• University Admissions: Many competitive programs require a minimum GPA.

• Scholarships: Award decisions often rely heavily on GPA.

• Job Applications: Some employers request transcripts or GPA for recent graduates.

• International Students: You may need to convert grades when applying abroad.

6. Important Links and Resources

• Academic grading in Canada – Wikipedia

• Canada GPA System – Indeed

• GradRight – GPA Scales

• LeapScholar – Provincial Grading Details

Conclusion:
The Canada grading system is diverse, with GPA and letter grades varying across provinces and institutions. Whether you are studying in Canada or applying from abroad, knowing your school’s specific grading scale is key to understanding your academic standing.