What is the difference between GWA and CGPA?

GWA (General Weighted Average) and CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) are both metrics used to assess a student's academic performances, but they differ in several ways depending on the education system.

1. GWA (General Weighted Average): 

 - Usage: Commonly used in countries like the Philippines and some Asian universities.

 - Calculation: It is typically calculated by multiplying the grade received in each subject by its corresponding weight or credit (based on importance or credit hours), summing these, and then dividing by the total number of credits.

 - Scale: The scale can bary, but it often uses numerical grades (e.g., 1.0 to 5.0, where 1.0 is the hightest in the Philippines).

 - Focus: Focuses more on weighted grades, taking into account the varying importance of courses.

2. CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average):

 - Usage: Widely used in many countries, especially in the US, Canada, and other regions with GPA systems.

 - Calculation: It is calculated by averaging all grade points earned in all courses over time, often on a 4.0 or 5.0 scale. The grade points are assigned based on letter grades (e.g., A = 4.0, B = 3.0, etc.). 

 - Scale: Most commonly, CGPA is calculated on a scale of 4.0 (with 4.0 being the highest), though variations exist. 

 - Focus: Focuses on an average of grades across all subjects, but each subject usually has equal weight unless specified otherwise.

Key Differences: 

 - System: GWA tends to be more flexible in terms of grading scales and weights assigned to subjects, while CGPA is typically standardized with fixed grade points for specific letter grades.

 - Regional Use: GWA is more region-specific, while CGPA is globally recognized in academic contexts, particularly in English-speaking countries.