The UK university grading system is structured uniquely, with a clear hierarchy of degree classifications that can be confusing to those unfamiliar with it. This blog will explain how grades in the UK are awarded and how they differ across disciplines and from the US system.
Degree Classifications
In the UK, undergraduate degrees are classified into four primary categories:
First-Class Honours (1st): Awarded to students achieving 70% and above. This is the highest classification, reflecting outstanding performance.
Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1): Awarded to those scoring between 60-69%. This is often seen as the benchmark for graduate opportunities and postgraduate study.
Lower Second-Class Honours (2:2): Awarded to those scoring between 50-59%.
Third-Class Honours (3rd): Awarded to students who score 40-49%.
Pass (Ordinary Degree): For those who do not meet the threshold for honours but have satisfied minimum requirements.
Postgraduate degrees, such as Master's, are typically classified as Distinction (70%+), Merit (60-69%), and Pass (50-59%).
Components of Grades: Humanities, STEM, and Social Sciences
Grades at UK universities are composed of different elements that vary depending on your academic discipline.
Humanities: Evaluation in humanities subjects is often through essays, dissertations, and exams. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, argumentation, and interpretation. Originality and depth of research are key to securing top marks.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics): These subjects typically involve a mix of exams, laboratory reports, and coursework. Exams may focus on problem-solving and application of knowledge, while lab work assesses practical skills and scientific understanding.
Social Sciences: Grading here combines elements of both humanities and STEM. Essays and exams are common, as are research projects and presentations. Critical analysis and the application of theoretical frameworks to real-world scenarios are typically tested.
Comparison with the US Grading System
The UK grading system is very different to the US:
Grade Point Average (GPA): US universities utilize a GPA system, typically on a 4.0 scale. Grades are given as letters (A, B, C, etc.), which correspond to numerical values. A rough equivalency between the US and the UK is outlined below.
UK Scale | UK Classification | US Grade | US GPA |
70-100% | 1st | A | 4.0 |
65-69% | 2:1 | A- | 3.7 |
60-64% | 2:1 | B+ | 3.3 |
55-59% | 2:2 | B | 3.1-3.2 |
50-54% | 2:2 | B- | 2.7-3.0 |
40-49% | 3rd | C | 2.0-2.6 |
0-39% | Fail | F | - |
Each university has its own US-UK grade equivalency, so if you’re applying to a UK master’s program with US grades you should check the university website for their specific grade requirements.
Continuous Assessment: US students are often continually assessed, through elements such as quizzes, midterms, and participation grades, which contribute to the final grade. In contrast, UK courses rely more heavily on end-of-year exams or final projects/essays.
Flexibility: US students usually have more flexibility in choosing and changing their courses throughout their degree, while UK students often follow a more rigid program with fewer elective options. The opportunity to take a course Pass/Fail is far less common in the UK.
For more information about UK grading, or applying to UK universities in general, contact one of our Hermiona experts to set up a consultation.
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