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Canvas calculates final grades by summing points earned and dividing by points possible — but the exact process depends on whether you use weighted assignment groups.

If You Use Weighted Assignment Groups

  • Canvas calculates a percentage score for each assignment group by dividing the total points earned by the total points possible in that group.
  • Then, it multiplies that percentage by the group’s weight (the percentage that group contributes to the final grade).
  • Finally, Canvas sums these weighted scores from all groups to determine the final grade.

Important

Within each group, assignments with more points have a greater impact on the group’s score. Canvas does not just average assignment percentages equally; it sums points earned and possible before applying the group weight.

Example

If you have two tests in a “Tests” group—one worth 100 points and the other worth 50 points—Canvas adds the points earned across both tests and divides by 150 total points, then applies the weight for the “Tests” group. You can learn more about Canvas Assignment Groups from the Canvas tutorial How do I weight the final course grade based on assignment groups?

If You Do NOT Use Weighted Assignment Groups

  • Canvas calculates the total points earned across all assignments and divides by the total points possible for the entire course.
  • Every point in the course weighs equally toward the final grade, regardless of which group its in.
  • Larger point-value assignments will influence the final grade more because they are worth more points.

Student total points earned on graded items: 879
Maximum total points assigned to all graded items: 1019

879 points ÷ 1019 points = 0.8626
0.8626 x 100 = 86.26% Final Grade

Tips for Setting Up Your Gradebook

  1. Use Weighted Groups to Match Your Syllabus
    Assign a percentage weight to each assignment group so Canvas calculates final grades based on those weights.
  2. Keep Assignment Point Values Consistent Within Groups
    If you want assignments to count equally within a group, try to give them similar point values.
  3. Review Your Gradebook Settings Early
    Make sure your groups and weights match your syllabus before the semester begins.
  4. Communicate Your Grading Policy Clearly
    Please make sure students understand how their grades are calculated and how different assignments influence their final grade.