Formula
Needed = (target − current × (1 − w)) ÷ ww = final exam weight as a decimal (25% → 0.25) How it works
Your course grade is a weighted average of the work done so far and the final exam. If the final is worth 25%, everything else counts for the remaining 75%. Subtract that 75% share of your current grade from the target and divide by 0.25 to see what the final has to contribute.
The result can be above 100% — meaning the target is out of reach without extra credit — or below zero, meaning you have already secured it. The two extra outputs show the best and worst case so you know your range.
This assumes your current grade is a percentage of the work already graded and that nothing else is left besides the final. If there are still assignments to come, use the weighted grade calculator to project them first.
Frequently asked questions
What if my class uses points instead of percentages?
Convert to percentages: current grade = points earned ÷ points possible so far, and the final’s weight = final points ÷ total course points.
Why do I need more than my target on the final?
When your current grade is below the target, the final has to pull the average up, so it must be higher than the target itself. The lower the final’s weight, the bigger the jump needed.