What Grade Do I Need on My Final?
How to calculate the minimum score you need on your final exam to reach your target grade
Need a quick answer? Use our Final Grade Calculator to instantly see what you need on your final.
The Formula
To find out what you need on your final exam, use this formula:
Required Final Grade = (Target Grade - Current Grade × (1 - Final Weight)) ÷ Final Weight
Where "Final Weight" is expressed as a decimal (e.g., 30% = 0.30).
What You Need to Know
Before you can calculate what you need, gather these three pieces of information:
- Your current grade.This is your grade in the class right now, before the final. Check your syllabus or ask your professor if you're not sure.
- Your final exam weight.How much is the final worth? Look at your syllabus. It might say something like "Final Exam: 30%".
- Your target grade. What grade do you want to end up with? An A (93%)? A B (83%)? Just passing (60%)?
Step-by-Step Example
Let's say you have an 82% in the class, your final is worth 25%, and you want to get a B (85%) in the course.
Step 1: Identify your values
- Current grade: 82%
- Final weight: 25% (0.25 as decimal)
- Target grade: 85%
Step 2:Calculate what's already secured
82 × (1 - 0.25) = 82 × 0.75 = 61.5
You've already "locked in" 61.5 points toward your final grade.
Step 3: Calculate points still needed
85 - 61.5 = 23.5 points needed from the final
Step 4: Calculate required final score
23.5 ÷ 0.25 = 94%
You need a 94% on your final to get an 85% in the course.
Common Scenarios
Scenario 1: Maintaining Your Grade
If you want to keep your current grade, you need to score exactly your current grade on the final. Have an 88%? Score an 88% on the final to maintain it.
Scenario 2: You Can't Fail Even With a 0
Sometimes your current grade is high enough that even a 0 on the final won't drop you below passing. For example, if you have a 92% and the final is worth 20%, the worst case is: 92 × 0.80 = 73.6%, which is still passing.
Scenario 3: You Need More Than 100%
If the calculator says you need over 100%, that target grade isn't mathematically possible. You'll need to adjust your expectations or look for extra credit opportunities.
Quick Reference Chart
Here's what you need on a final worth 25% of your grade, based on your current grade and target:
| Current Grade | Target: B (80%) | Target: A (90%) |
|---|---|---|
| 70% | 110% (not possible) | 150% (not possible) |
| 75% | 95% | 135% (not possible) |
| 80% | 80% | 120% (not possible) |
| 85% | 65% | 105% (not possible) |
| 90% | 50% | 90% |
| 95% | 35% | 75% |
Tips for Final Exam Prep
- Know your minimum. Calculate what you need just to pass, not just your ideal grade. It reduces stress.
- Check if the final is cumulative. Cumulative finals require reviewing the whole semester. Start early.
- Ask about the format. Multiple choice? Essays? Knowing the format helps you prepare effectively.
- Use a study schedule. Our study schedule generator can help you plan your final exam prep time.