GPA, or Grade Point Average, is a numerical representation of a student's academic performance. It is calculated by assigning a point value to each grade earned in courses, typically on a scale from 0.0 to 4.0. For example, an "A" might be worth 4.0 points, while a "C" could be worth 2.0 points. The GPA is then determined by averaging these points over a specific period, such as a semester or an entire academic year. GPA is commonly used by schools and colleges to assess a student's overall academic achievement. It can play a significant role in college admissions, scholarship eligibility, and academic honors. A higher GPA often indicates better performance, while a lower GPA may suggest the need for improvement in studies.