Grade Curve Calculator

Grading on a curve means adjusting scores so that the grade distribution follows a predetermined pattern. In its strictest form (bell curving), the top students get A's, the middle students get C's, and the bottom students get F's, regardless of the actual raw scores.

The linear method (adding a fixed number of points to everyone's score) is the most common and simplest. The square root method is also popular because it helps lower-scoring students more than high-scoring ones, which many consider more fair.

It depends on perspective. Proponents argue it accounts for exam difficulty and ensures consistent standards across semesters. Critics argue it creates unhealthy competition and can hurt students in already high-performing classes. Many educators prefer setting a fixed standard rather than curving.

A square root curve helps lower scores more than higher ones. For example, on a 100-point scale: a raw score of 36 becomes 60, 49 becomes 70, 64 becomes 80, and 81 becomes 90. The formula is: curved score = 10 × sqrt(raw score).

You would need to know how the final will be curved, which is usually unknown in advance. Use our Grade Calculator to estimate your raw score needs, and remember that curving can only improve your grade relative to the raw score.