Difference Between CGPA and SGPA: A Simple Breakdown
CGPA and SGPA are two methods of calculating the marks and grades of an exam. They give an overview of the academic performance of the student. Most people use these terms interchangeably. But there is a difference between the two, which is exactly what this blog is all about.
Check out this article to understand how CGPA and SGPA are calculated.
What is CGPA?
CGPA, or Cumulative Grade Point Average, measures the overall average of the grade points that students accumulate throughout the semesters, reflecting their cumulative academic performance in relation to the course or program.
To find the CGPA, the total grade points secured in all subjects from semester to semester is added up, then divided by the number of subjects. Or, add the SGPA in each semester and divide by the total number of semesters.
The CGPA determines the overall performances of a student in an institution of higher education by portraying a holistic assessment of a student’s consistency and achievements across courses and semesters. Sometimes, it is used for admissions, scholarships, or job application purposes. It generally indicates long-term academic success.
What is SGPA?
SGPA, or Semester Grade Point Average, is the average grade points a student earns in a particular semester. This reflects the student’s academic performance within that semester, calculated by dividing total grade points by total credit hours.
It is obtained by multiplying the grade points of each subject by its respective credit hours and then summing them up. The total is then divided by the total number of credit hours attempted in that semester to obtain the SGPA.
SGPA is very important in assessing performance semester-wise because it reflects a student’s academic achievements within a particular semester. It helps in identifying the strengths and areas that require improvement, thus forming part of a decision like academic standing, scholarship, and eligibility for further courses.
Key Differences Between CGPA and SGPA
Aspects | CGPA | SGPA |
Calculation Method | It is calculated by dividing the total grade points earned by the total number of credit hours across all the semesters. | It is calculated by dividing the total grade points earned in a specific semester by the total number of credit hours in that particular semester. |
Scope | It covers multiple semesters. | This is semester-specific. |
Use in academic evaluation | It provides a long-term or an overall assessment. | This assesses short-term progress. |
Career prospects | It influences career prospects by providing a holistic view of the student to the recruiter. | This has very little influence as it provides only a partial record of the student’s performance. |
Why Do CGPA and SGPA Matter?
- CGPA affects the long-term academic standing since it indicates the consistency and performance of a student in the entire course. Moreover, excellence in CGPA increases possibilities of scholarship opportunities, internship awards, and job opportunities, whereas poor CGPA limits opportunities for further education and careers.
- SGPA is used in the computation of short-term academic performance for a specific semester by showing one’s achievements during that particular semester. This is to assess where one is strong and weak; it will be considered to influence immediate improvements and academically for honors eligibility or further courses of study.
How to Improve Your CGPA and SGPA?
- A daily study schedule with consistency ensures that concepts do not fade away, and one never has to study at the last minute.
- Engage with the subject matter by involving discussions, practice problems, and self-testing to enhance retaining capacity.
- Spend more time on challenging subjects but balance it out with easier ones.
- Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and use planners to keep track of your schedule.
- Periodically evaluate progress through mock tests and seek comments from teachers to know in which aspects one needs improvement.
- Avoid procrastination and take regular breaks to reduce the semester workload.
Conclusion
Both CGPA and SGPA are crucial tools in tracking academic performance; SGPA is essentially semester-based, while the CGPA takes into account cumulative progress over time. The two measures reflect the strengths and weaknesses that aid in making present and future choices. To be successful in the classroom, be consistent, set realistic goals, and use effective study habits to maximize performance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Difference between CGPA and SGPA?
The difference between CGPA and SGPA is that SGPA provides a student’s performance in a particular semester, whereas CGPA represents the total cumulative record of a student across semesters, reflecting the overall achievement acquired in the college.
How is CGPA calculated?
CGPA is calculated by dividing the total grade points earned by the total number of credit hours attempted across all semesters.
What does my SGPA Indicate about my Academic Performance?SGPA indicates academic achievement only in that particular semester. It helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses and the areas that require improvement.
Can I Improve my CGPA after Graduation?
Generally, CGPA is fixed and cannot be altered after graduation. But you take up some specialised courses or certifications to add value to your academic profile, improving career prospects.
How does my CGPA Affect my Chances for Scholarships or Job Opportunities?
A high CGPA increases your chances for scholarships and job opportunities because it reflects consistency in performance, dedication, and reliability. It gives you a competitive edge in the job market.
