Start with the policy, not the calculator
“Retake” is not one universal GPA rule. UCLA says eligible undergraduates repeating 16 units or fewer generally have only the most recent grade and grade points used in the GPA; beyond that limit, both attempts count. UC Berkeley describes a first-repeat rule for its first 12 units of repeated coursework. Both schools keep attempts visible on the transcript.
Worked example: an F retaken for an A−
A student has a 2.700 GPA over 45 units. Those 121.5 quality points already include a 3-unit F worth zero points. The retake is an A− worth 3.7 points per unit, or 11.1 quality points.
- Full replacement: (121.5 − 0 + 11.1) ÷ 45 = 2.947.
- Both attempts counted: (121.5 + 11.1) ÷ 48 = 2.763.
Try the numbers
Compare two common retake treatments
This is a policy comparison, not a prediction of your school's decision.
Four details to verify
- Which original grades are eligible to be repeated.
- Whether the new grade replaces the old one or both count.
- Any unit limit, deadline, or approval requirement.
- Whether a third attempt or a course taken elsewhere is treated differently.
Open the calculator and turn on Retakes to model a full-replacement scenario, then compare it with your school's actual rule.
Policy sources
Policies vary by institution and can change. These official sources support the school-specific statements above; your registrar is the final authority.
- UCLA Catalog — Repetition of Courses states eligibility and the 16-unit undergraduate rule.
- UC Berkeley Registrar — Grades & Grading explains its repeat treatment and transcript display.
Written and independently checked by GPA Clarity · Last reviewed September 9, 2026