Academic Honor Calculator
Determine your Latin Honors eligibility (Cum Laude, Magna, or Summa)
Understanding Academic Latin Honors
Latin honors are a traditional system used by colleges and universities to recognize high academic achievement upon graduation. While every institution has its own specific GPA thresholds, the three standard tiers are Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Summa Cum Laude. This honor calculator helps you determine which category you fall into based on your current cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA).
The Three Tiers of Excellence
- Summa Cum Laude: Meaning "With Highest Honor." This is the highest academic distinction, usually reserved for the top 1% to 5% of the graduating class.
- Magna Cum Laude: Meaning "With Great Honor." This recognizes students who have achieved a significantly high GPA, typically representing the top 10% to 15% of graduates.
- Cum Laude: Meaning "With Honor." This acknowledges general academic excellence and is the most common tier of distinction.
How to Use the Honor Calculator
To use the calculator, enter your current cumulative GPA. We have pre-filled standard thresholds (3.50, 3.70, and 3.90), but these vary significantly between schools. You should check your university's specific handbook or registrar's page to see their exact cut-offs. Some schools base honors on percentile (e.g., the top 5% get Summa), while others use fixed GPA requirements.
Realistic Example Calculation
Imagine a student at a university where the thresholds are 3.55 (Cum Laude), 3.75 (Magna), and 3.95 (Summa). If the student has a GPA of 3.78:
- The GPA (3.78) is higher than 3.55 (Cum Laude).
- The GPA (3.78) is also higher than 3.75 (Magna Cum Laude).
- The GPA (3.78) is NOT higher than 3.95 (Summa Cum Laude).
The student would graduate Magna Cum Laude. Use this calculator to see where you stand and what GPA you need to reach the next tier of distinction before graduation.