How grade curving works
Teachers sometimes curve test scores to account for a difficult exam. This calculator supports two widely used methods. The Highest Score to 100% method adds enough points to every score so that the highest scorer in the class reaches 100%, then applies that same point boost to your score. The Square Root Method converts your percentage score to a decimal, takes its square root, and multiplies by 10, which boosts lower scores more than higher ones.
Formulas used: Highest-score method: Curved % = Raw % + (100 − Highest Scorer’s %). Square root method: Curved % = √(Raw % × 10).
- Enter your raw score and the total points possible for the assignment.
- For the highest-score method, also enter the top score achieved in the class.
- Results are capped between 0% and 100%.
This tool is for general educational estimation; your instructor’s actual curving policy may differ.
Last reviewed August 2026