Nepal GPA Conversion: 4.0 and 10.0 CGPA Scales to US GPA Explained

Quick Answer

Nepal does not have a single unified grading system. Different examining bodies and universities use different scales, which can be confusing for students, parents, and employers. Most institutions use a 4.0 CGPA scale where A = 4.0, while the National Examination Board (NEB) uses a letter grading system also on a 4.0 scale for SEE and Grade 11–12 examinations. Some universities also use a 10.0 CGPA scale for certain programs.

Tribhuvan University (TU), Nepal’s oldest and largest university, traditionally uses a percentage-based system with divisions: Distinction (75%+), First Division (60–74%), Second Division (45–59%), and Third Division (35–44%). Some newer TU programs under the semester system use a 4.0 GPA scale. Kathmandu University (KU) and Pokhara University (PU) both use a 4.0 absolute GPA scale across all programs.

There is no official Nepal-to-US GPA conversion table published by any government body. WES and other credential evaluators convert grades individually based on academic rigor, grading scale, and institutional standards.

Nepali Grading Scale at a Glance

National Examination Board (NEB) Grading — 4.0 Scale

The National Examination Board (NEB) uses a letter grading system on a 4.0 GPA scale for both SEE (Grade 10) and Grade 11–12 examinations. This system replaced the old percentage-based division system to reduce unhealthy competition.

The NEB grading scale is:

A student must score at least a D+ (1.6 GPA, 35%) to pass in the NEB system.

Tribhuvan University (TU) Grading

Tribhuvan University, Nepal’s oldest and largest university, traditionally uses a percentage-based system with divisions:

Some newer TU programs under the semester system use a 4.0 GPA scale. The TU undergraduate scale, where 40% is the minimum pass mark, uses:

For graduate programs at TU where the pass mark is 40%, the classification is: 75%+ = Distinction, 60–74% = First Division, 50–59% = Second Division, 40–49% = Pass.

Kathmandu University (KU) Grading — 4.0 Scale

Kathmandu University uses a 4.0 absolute GPA scale across all programs. Grades range from A (4.0, 90–100%) to F (0.0, below 40%). KU calculates both semester GPA and cumulative GPA (CGPA).

The KU grading scale is:

KU uses a linear conversion formula: GPA = (Percentage ÷ 100) × 4, meaning 90%+ is needed for a 4.0 GPA.

Pokhara University (PU) Grading — 4.0 Scale

Pokhara University follows a 4.0 GPA scale similar to KU. PU uses letter grades from A (4.0) down to F (0.0). Internal assessments typically contribute 40% and finals 60% of the total grade.

The PU grading scale is:

Nepal Grade Lookup Tool

This tool shows your grade’s Nepali descriptor and an approximate US GPA equivalent based on commonly accepted conversion standards. It does not generate an official GPA — see the sections below on why that number can’t be produced by a simple formula, and how to get an official conversion.

Why There’s No Single “Correct” US GPA Number

1. No Unified Grading System

Nepal does not have a single unified grading system. Different examining bodies and universities use different scales. NEB uses a 4.0 letter grading scale, KU and PU use a 4.0 absolute GPA scale, and TU traditionally uses a percentage-based system with divisions.

2. No Official Nepal-to-US Conversion Authority

There is no official Nepal-to-US GPA formula published by the Nepali government, the US Department of Education, or any bilateral agreement. The University Grants Commission (UGC) Nepal regulates higher education within Nepal but does not provide conversion to foreign systems.

3. WES Re-evaluates Based on Multiple Factors

WES does not simply copy your university GPA. They re-evaluate based on academic rigor, grading scale, and institutional standards. Nepal GPAs are often adjusted downward when converted to the US scale due to stricter grading practices in Nepal.

4. Institution-Specific Charts Vary

Some US universities publish their own conversion charts for Nepali grades. These are real and usable as reference points, but they apply to that institution’s own grading system — not to every US institution.

A Real US Conversion Example

Based on WES historical evaluations and student reports, the following approximation is commonly used for Nepal GPA to US GPA conversion — not a universal standard:

Source: Based on WES historical evaluations and student reports. This chart applies as a planning reference only — your target university’s admissions or study-abroad office may use a different scale entirely.

How WES Converts Nepali Grades

Most US universities, scholarship programs, and immigration processes that require a numeric GPA from a Nepali transcript point applicants to a NACES-accredited credential evaluation service, most commonly World Education Services (WES). WES evaluates Nepali credentials by converting each grade individually and weighting the results by credit hours to produce a final GPA.

How to Report Your Nepali GPA on US Applications

1. Report Your Original Grades First

Don’t self-convert to a 4.0 scale unless the application specifically asks for a US-equivalent GPA. Report your grades exactly as they appear on your transcript — including the grading scale used (e.g., NEB 4.0, TU percentage, KU 4.0, etc.).

2. Include Your Grading Scale Explanation

Nepali transcripts often include the grading scale key on the academic record. Include this key or the official grading scale explanation wherever the application allows supporting documents. Clearly indicate which grading system your institution uses (NEB, TU, KU, PU, etc.).

3. Get a Formal Evaluation If Required

Many US graduate programs and scholarships — including some competitive, merit-based ones — require a WES or equivalent NACES-member evaluation rather than a self-reported conversion. Submit sealed official transcripts and include grading scale documentation.

4. Don’t Round Up

If your evaluated GPA falls in a range, report the figure your evaluator actually gives you — not the top of the band.

Frequently Asked Questions

Christian Chinonso

Christian Chinonso is the founder of LearnViaHub, with 6+ years of research experience in international education, GPA systems, and study-abroad guidance for international students.Christian Chinonso is the founder of LearnViaHub, with 6+ years of research experience in international education — including GPA systems, scholarships, student financing, and study-abroad guidance — for students worldwide.