How to Handle Courses with a Fixed Curve
A fixed curve adds the same flat number of points to every student’s score on a specific assessment, rather than redistributing scores statistically.
Key rule: A fixed curve adds the same flat amount to every score — don’t assume it before it’s officially announced.
Calculation Steps for Courses with a Fixed Curve
- Get your overall running grade from your course management system.
- Confirm the final exam weight from your syllabus grading breakdown.
- Set your target based on degree requirements, financial aid minimums, or major prerequisites.
- Run the calculator and interpret: under 100% is achievable, over 100% means lower your target.
Frequently Asked Questions
A curve adjusts all scores up — either by a flat amount or by setting the top score to 100%. Your pre-curve score is what this calculator uses. Recalculate once the curved score is
The exact final exam weight from your syllabus — this drives the entire calculation.
Lower your target and recalculate. Ask your professor about extra credit or incomplete grade options.
Always enter the single running overall grade shown in your gradebook.
No — the formula is the same. A fixed curve adds the same flat amount to every score — don’t assume it before it’s officially announced..
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