CWA vs. GWA – How to Calculate and Compare Cumulative Weighted Average vs. General Weighted Average
In academic grading systems, CWA (Cumulative Weighted Average) and GWA (General Weighted Average) are commonly used to measure student performance. While both systems assess academic achievement, they differ in their calculation methods and applications. Understanding these differences is crucial for students, especially in the Philippines, where these terms are widely used.
What is CWA and GWA?
- General Weighted Average (GWA): This is a grading system that includes all subjects taken by a student. It provides an overall view of academic performance by computing the weighted average of grades across all enrolled courses.
- Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA): Unlike GWA, CWA considers only the grades from specific curriculum-based courses, making it more relevant for students switching academic programs or applying for scholarships.
How to Calculate CWA and GWA
GWA Calculation
To determine GWA, students need to:
- Assign weight to each subject based on credit hours.
- Multiply the subject’s grade by its corresponding weight.
- Sum up all weighted values and divide by the total credit hours.
CWA Calculation
CWA is calculated similarly but considers only relevant curriculum-based courses. The formula used is:
CWA=∑(CreditHours×Grades)∑(CreditHours)CWA = \frac{\sum (Credit Hours \times Grades)}{\sum (Credit Hours)}
Both GWA and CWA help in evaluating academic performance but serve different purposes based on a student’s educational path.
Which is Better: CWA or GWA?
The choice between CWA and GWA depends on the academic goals of a student:
- GWA is beneficial for students who want an overall performance assessment, often used in transcripts of records for job applications and further studies.
- CWA is more useful for students transitioning to a new college program or applying for specific academic recognitions like Latin honors.
Other Important Grading Terms
- GPA (Grade Point Average): A grading system commonly used in universities worldwide. Students can compare GPA vs. GWA to understand their significance.
- Certificate of GWA: An official document that serves as proof of a student’s computed GWA, often required for scholarships and academic applications.
Conclusion
There is no definitive answer to which grading system is better. CWA and GWA are both important depending on academic objectives. Understanding their differences will help students make informed decisions regarding their academic journey.
FAQs
Can I calculate my CWA or GWA on my own?
Yes, using a GWA calculator can simplify the process.
How do I compute my CWA?
Apply the formula: (Credit Hours × Grades) / Total Credit Hours.
Does CWA consider the difficulty level of courses?
No, it focuses solely on curriculum-based subjects.
By knowing the differences between CWA and GWA, students can better assess their academic standing and make strategic choices for their education and career.
