How to Calculate a Test Grade
Last updated: October 11, 2026
A test grade is the share of the test you got right, written as a percentage. Here is how to work it out and how one test affects your class grade.
Number correct
Test grade = questions correct ÷ total questions × 100
Example: 42 correct out of 50 questions. 42 ÷ 50 = 0.84, so the grade is 84%.
Points earned
If questions are worth different points, or you earned partial credit, use points instead: points earned ÷ points possible × 100. Scoring 87 points out of 100 is 87%.
How a test changes your class grade
A test only moves your class grade by the amount it is worth. In a points-based class, add the test’s points to your totals.
Example: before the test you have 400 out of 450 points, which is 88.9%. You score 42 out of 50 on the test. Now you have 442 out of 500 points, which is 88.4%.
If your class uses weighted categories, the test changes the average of its category, and that average counts for the category’s weight. See how to calculate a weighted grade.
If the test is curved
Use the curved score your teacher enters, not the raw score. Different teachers curve differently, so ask if you are unsure.
See the effect before the test
Add the upcoming test as an assignment in Grade Calculator, try different scores, and watch your class grade update.