Grade Curve Calculator — Apply Curve Free

What Is a Grade Curve?

A grade curve (or curving grades) is a method professors use to adjust test or course scores upward. It's applied when an exam is harder than expected or when the class average is lower than the professor intended. The most common type is a flat curve — every student receives the same number of bonus points added to their score.

Other curving methods include the square root curve, percentage multiplier, and bell curve (normal distribution adjustment). This calculator handles flat curves and square root curves.

Curve Formulas

Flat Curve: Curved Grade = Original Score + Curve Points
Example: 72% + 8 points = 80% (B−)

Square Root Curve: Curved Grade = √(Original Score) × 10

Example: √64 × 10 = 80% — boosts lower scores more than higher ones

Curve Examples

📊 Flat Curve Example (+10 points)

Original Score: 58%58 + 10 = 68% → D+

Original Score: 72%72 + 10 = 82% → B−

Original Score: 85%85 + 10 = 95% → A

📊 Square Root Curve Example

Original Score: 49%√49 × 10 = 70% → C−

Original Score: 64%√64 × 10 = 80% → B−

Original Score: 81%√81 × 10 = 90% → A−

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a grade curve?

A grade curve is when a professor adjusts all students' scores upward (or sometimes uses a bell-curve method) to raise the class average. The most common type is a flat curve — adding the same number of points to everyone's score.

How do I calculate my curved grade?

For a flat curve: Curved Grade = Original Score + Curve Points. For a square root curve: Curved Grade = √(Original Score) × 10. Enter your score and choose your curve type above to get the result instantly.

What is a square root curve?

A square root curve boosts lower scores more than higher ones. The formula is: Curved Grade = √(Original Score) × 10. For example, a 64% becomes √64 × 10 = 80%, while a 100% stays at 100%.

Can my curved grade exceed 100%?

Yes, with a flat curve your grade can exceed 100%. This typically counts as extra credit or is capped at 100% depending on your professor's policy. Our calculator will show your actual curved score even if above 100%.

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