What is GWA? General Weighted Average Explained (PH)
GWA or General Weighted Average is the overall average of a student’s grades in the Philippines, calculated by dividing the total weighted grades (grade × units) by the total units. It reflects overall academic performance and is used for honors, scholarships, academic standing, and shifting courses. Unlike CWA, it includes all subjects, including electives.
If you’re a student in the Philippines, you’ve probably heard of GWA or General Weighted Average. It’s one of the most important numbers in your academic journey, but many students are unsure how it’s really calculated or why it matters so much.
In simple terms, GWA is the overall average of all your grades, weighted by the number of units per subject. Schools use it to measure your overall academic performance and determine eligibility for honors, scholarships, and even course shifting.
What is GWA (General Weighted Average)?
The General Weighted Average (GWA) is a numerical value that represents your academic performance. Unlike a simple average, GWA takes into account the credit units of each subject, giving more weight to major subjects with higher units.
Quick Answer:
GWA is computed by multiplying each grade by its corresponding unit, adding them up, and dividing by the total units.
For example, a 3-unit subject in Math affects your GWA more than a 1-unit subject like PE.
How to Compute GWA (Formula)
The formula for GWA is:
\[ \text{GWA} = \frac{\sum ( \text{Grade} \times \text{Units} )}{\sum (\text{Units})} \]Example Calculation:
- Math (3 units) → Grade: 1.75
- English (3 units) → Grade: 2.0
- PE (2 units) → Grade: 2.5
- Science (4 units) → Grade: 2.25
Result: 2.10 GWA
Instead of doing manual math, you can use our GWA Calculator to instantly compute your GWA with just a few clicks.
Why is GWA Important?
Your GWA is more than just a number — it plays a big role in shaping your academic opportunities.
- Scholarships
- Many scholarships in the Philippines require a minimum GWA (e.g., 1.75 or better).
- Honors (Latin Honors)
- For graduation honors:
- Cum Laude: Usually GWA of 1.75 or better
- Magna Cum Laude: Around 1.5
- Summa Cum Laude: Around 1.2–1.3
- For graduation honors:
- Shifting to Another Course
- Some universities, like the University of the Philippines (UP), check your GWA or CWA before allowing a course shift.
- Academic Standing
- Schools may place students on probation or disqualify them if their GWA falls below the required standard.
GWA vs CWA (Quick Difference)
Students often confuse GWA with CWA (Curriculum Weighted Average).
|
Aspect |
GWA |
CWA |
|---|---|---|
|
Scope |
All subjects, including electives |
Only curriculum-required subjects |
|
Use Case |
Scholarships, honors, overall performance |
Course shifting, curriculum-based evaluation |
|
Example |
Includes PE, NSTP |
Excludes PE, NSTP if not in curriculum |
Learn more in our detailed guide: CWA vs GWA
FAQs About GWA
What is a good GWA in the Philippines?
A GWA of 2.0 or better is generally considered good. For scholarships and honors, aim for 1.75 or higher.
Does PE or NSTP count in GWA?
Yes. Since GWA includes all subjects, PE, NSTP, and electives are counted.
Is GWA the same as GPA?
Not exactly. GPA (Grade Point Average) is commonly used internationally and usually only averages grades per semester. GWA in the Philippines is often cumulative and includes all completed subjects.
What’s the minimum GWA for Latin honors?
It varies by school, but typically:
Cum Laude: 1.75
Magna Cum Laude: 1.5
Summa Cum Laude: 1.2–1.3
How can I improve my GWA?
Focus on high-unit major subjects
Manage your study schedule
Seek help in difficult subjects early
Use a GWA calculator to track and set grade goals
The General Weighted Average (GWA) is a critical measure of your academic performance in the Philippines. It determines scholarships, honors, academic standing, and even eligibility for shifting courses.
Don’t leave it to guesswork — use our free GWA Calculator to instantly compute your grades and stay on track toward your goals.
