The weighted average is an important concept in Dutch education. When calculating your final grade, not all grades count equally - some tests weigh more than others. In this article, we explain what a weighted average is and how to calculate it.
What is a weighted average?
A weighted average is an average where some values have more influence on the final result than others. This is determined by assigning 'weighting factors' or 'weights' to each value.
Unlike the arithmetic mean, where all values count equally, the weighted average takes into account the relative importance of each value. This is particularly useful in education, where for example a school exam may weigh more heavily than a written quiz.
The formula for weighted average
The formula for calculating a weighted average is:
Weighted average = Σ(grade × weight) / Σ(weight)
In other words: multiply each grade by its weight, add all results together, and divide by the sum of all weights.
Calculation example
Suppose you have the following grades for Dutch:
- School exam: 7.5 (weight 3)
- Written quiz: 6.8 (weight 1)
- Oral presentation: 8.0 (weight 2)
Calculation: (7.5 × 3) + (6.8 × 1) + (8.0 × 2) = 22.5 + 6.8 + 16.0 = 45.3. Sum of weights: 3 + 1 + 2 = 6. Weighted average: 45.3 / 6 = 7.55
Your weighted average is 7.6 (rounded to one decimal)
Weighted average in secondary school
In Dutch secondary schools (vmbo, havo, vwo) weighting factors are usually used. Typical weights are:
- Exam or test: weight 3-5
- Written quiz (SO): weight 1-2
- Homework or practical assignment: weight 1
- Oral examination: weight 1-2
The exact weights differ per school and per subject. Always check the program of testing and completion (PTA) for the weights in your situation.
Weighted average at university
At universities and colleges, credit points (EC or ECTS) are used as weighting factors. A course of 6 EC weighs twice as much as a course of 3 EC.
The weighted average based on ECs is important for cum laude graduation, master admission and scholarships. Calculate your average by multiplying each grade by the number of ECs of the course.
Calculate your weighted average
Use our free online calculator to quickly and easily calculate your weighted average. Enter your grades and weights and get instant results.