How to Calculate CGPA and Achieve first Class Degree in Nigerian Universities: Knowing how to calculate your Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) is crucial for every university student, especially first-year students. By tracking your CGPA after each semester and session, you can monitor your academic performance, recognize areas for improvement, and set realistic goals for your studies.
Understanding the CGPA Scale in Nigerian Universities
In Nigerian universities, your performance in each course is graded with letters: A, B, C, D, E, or F. Each letter grade represents a specific score range and has an assigned grade point. Here’s a breakdown of the grading system:
- A (70% and Above) = 5.00
- B (60 – 69%) = 4.00
- C (50 – 59%) = 3.00
- D (45 – 49%) = 2.00
- E (40 – 44%) = 1.00
- F (Below 40%) = 0.00
These grade points play a significant role in calculating your GPA and, ultimately, your CGPA.
Calculating Your Grade Point Average (GPA)
To calculate your GPA for a semester, you’ll first need to know the Credit Units (CU) of each course. Credit Units indicate the weight or importance of a course. Each course’s Quality Points (QP) is calculated by multiplying the Credit Units by the Grade Point you earned in that course.
Example of GPA Calculation
Let’s say you have a course with 3 Credit Units, and you scored 63%, earning a B, which has a Grade Point of 4. To find the Quality Points for this course, multiply the 3 Credit Units by the Grade Point of 4:
- 3 Credit Units x 4 Grade Points = 12 Quality Points
To calculate your GPA for the semester, add up the Quality Points for all your courses, then divide by the Total Credit Units for that semester.
For instance, if you earned a total of 56 Quality Points across 18 Credit Units, your GPA would be:
- GPA = 56 / 18 = 3.11
Calculating Your Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA)
Your CGPA is calculated by dividing the Total Quality Points (TQP) earned across all semesters by the Total Credit Units (TCU) for those semesters. The CGPA shows your average performance over multiple semesters, making it a key factor in determining your degree classification.
An Example of how to calculate CGPA
Assume in your first semester, you earned 56 Quality Points over 18 Credit Units. Then, in your second semester, you earned 67 Quality Points over 20 Credit Units. To calculate your CGPA, add up the Total Quality Points and Total Credit Units from both semesters, then divide:
CGPA = (56 + 67) / (18 + 20) = 123 / 38 = 3.24
Detailed Example of GPA and CGPA Calculation
To further illustrate, here’s a breakdown of GPA and CGPA calculations for a student’s first year:
First Year, First Semester:
- GPA = 66 / 17 = 3.88
- CGPA = 66 / 17 = 3.88
First Year, Second Semester:
- GPA = 48 / 20 = 2.40
- CGPA = 114 / 37 = 3.08
Each semester adds to your CGPA, and this process continues until graduation, where your final CGPA is determined based on all semesters.
Degree Classifications in Nigerian Universities based on CGPA
Nigerian universities have specific classifications based on CGPA that reflect students’ overall academic performance. Let’s look at these classifications and the CGPA ranges required:
1. First Class
A First Class degree is the highest achievement, requiring a CGPA of 4.50 or above on the 5.00 scale. This reflects exceptional academic performance throughout your program.
2. Second Class Upper (2.1)
A Second Class Upper requires a CGPA between 3.50 and 4.49. This classification shows a high level of academic performance and is highly regarded by employers and graduate schools.
3. Second Class Lower (2.2)
A Second Class Lower classification is awarded to students with a CGPA between 2.40 and 3.49. It represents good academic performance and is an acceptable result for most fields.
4. Third Class
A Third Class is the minimum passing grade, awarded for a CGPA between 1.50 and 2.39. Though it’s a pass, it’s generally less competitive in the job market.
Achieving any of these classifications requires dedication throughout your time at university. Consistently aiming for a high GPA in each semester will help build a strong CGPA by graduation. It’s important to remain focused, study diligently, and manage your time well.
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Tips for Achieving a First Class or Second Class Upper Degree or a good CGPA in the University
If you’re aiming for a First Class or Second Class Upper degree, these strategies can help you stay on track:
1. Set Clear Goals Each Semester
Having specific targets keeps you motivated. Whether aiming for particular grades or just understanding a subject deeply, these objectives will help you stay focused.
2. Attend Lectures Regularly
Being present in class helps you understand concepts better and lets you ask questions directly. Additionally, lecturers often highlight important points that may not be in textbooks.
3. Take Good Notes and Review Often
During lectures, take notes of main ideas, definitions, and examples. Review these notes consistently to reinforce what you’ve learned.
4. Study Consistently
Avoid cramming by setting aside time to study each day. Regular study sessions make it easier to absorb information without feeling overwhelmed.
5. Use Quality Study Materials
Get reliable textbooks, past questions, and other resources recommended by your lecturers. These materials simplify complex topics and help you prepare for exams effectively.
6. Join a Study Group
Group study allows you to share knowledge and discuss challenging topics. It’s also a great way to quiz each other and clarify doubts.
7. Seek Help When Needed
If you’re struggling with a topic, don’t hesitate to ask for help from lecturers or classmates. Understanding concepts early prevents gaps in knowledge.
8. Practice Past Questions
Solving past questions helps you understand exam patterns and manage your time effectively during exams.
9. Take Care of Your Health
A healthy lifestyle aids concentration and memory. Eat balanced meals, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly to keep your mind sharp.
10. Balance Your Time Wisely
Time management is essential for success. Create a study schedule, but also make time for relaxation to avoid burnout.
11. Stay Positive and Persistent
Challenges are normal, but maintaining a positive outlook helps you overcome them. Stay motivated, and remember that consistency is more important than perfection.
By following these steps, you can work towards a First Class or Second Class Upper degree. You can drop your Questions in the comments session below our Admin will answer you immediately.
