UK University Grading System for Undergraduate Degrees – SAUK Guide
Over the past years, the United Kingdom still remains one of the most popular destinations where foreign students choose to study. In a single academic year (2020-2021), over 452,000 foreign students were enrolled in the country to study in higher education. In the world ranking of best 5 destinations to study the undergraduate degree, the UK provides internationally reputed degrees and opportunities in varied kinds of learning.
When aiming to pursue a bachelor or combined master degree in the UK, it is important to know the grading system of UK universities. Study Advisors UK defines how well you will be evaluated in regards to your performance, the kind of degree classification you would receive, and how the future employers or schools would accept the academic results of your degree.
UK Degree Choices - All Sorts of Degrees in the UK.
The UK gives undergraduate students the choice between an Ordinary Degree and an Honours Degree.
An Ordinary Degree (BA or BSc) is normally three years, with, on average, 15 credits per year, with a combination of courses rather than a specific specialization. All the modules have to be passed to graduate, but the path is overall less competitive in the job market.
A more specialized Honours Degree takes four years and consists of approximately 20 credits per year. You specialize in a single topic with mandatory and optional segments, and your eventual categorization depends on your specialized knowledge as well as merit. Prized by the employers and universities, it gives superior career opportunities and postgraduate opportunities.
Honours Degree Classifications
UK honours degrees are divided into four main classifications, each with an equivalent percentage range and letter grade:
|
Classification |
Marks |
Equivalent Grade |
|
First-class (1st) |
70%+ |
A |
|
Upper Second (2:1) |
60–69% |
B |
|
Lower Second (2:2) |
50–59% |
C |
|
Third-class (3rd) |
40–49% |
D |
First-Class Honours
- It is an award presented in recognition of 70 and above percent.
- Holds the supreme standard of academic level.
- Equivalent Grade: A.
- Proves to be subject mastery, critical thinkers and consistent.
- At the top-ranking institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Glasgow universities, students have the opportunity of passing first grades in two distinct specializations.
- Organizations and postgraduate programmes, all over the globe, attempt to recruit graduates in large numbers.
Upper Second-Class Honours
- Awarded on having 60-69%.
- Grade Level: B.
- Even then, it was considered to be an excellent academic position.
- Frequently the absolute minimum to apply competitively to jobs, and to postgraduate study in the UK.
Lower Second-Class Honours
- It was given out on the achievement of 50-59%.
- Grade Level: C.
- Sufficient to all but the most demanding graduate employment, and some master degree programmes.
- Demonstrates a normal grasp of your subject though not as deep as top categories.
Third Class Honours (3rd)
- Awarded at 40-49 %.
- Grade Equivalent: D
- It is a representation of the lowest honours degree level.
- May restrict jobs and further studies.
|
Classification |
Description |
|
First-Class Honours |
Highest academic standard; shows subject mastery, critical thinking, and consistent results. Double Firsts possible at top universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Glasgow. Highly sought after by employers and postgraduate programmes worldwide. |
|
Upper Second-Class Honours |
Considered excellent academic standing. Often the minimum requirement for competitive jobs and postgraduate study in the UK. |
|
Lower Second-Class Honours |
Meets requirements for most graduate jobs and some master’s degrees. Shows a reasonable understanding of the subject. |
|
Third-Class Honours |
Lowest honours classification. May limit opportunities for employment and further study. |
What happens to the case that you do not attain an Honours degree?
In case a student just falls short of the requirements to obtain an honours degree, some universities in the UK may confer to award ordinary degree instead. This authenticates the student has finished his/her studies, but fell short of scholarly standards to be identified as an honours classification.
The importance of Your UK Degree classification -And how SAUK can help you to succeed
Getting an average degree can be a bar to postgraduate and career future. At SAUK, we help students to settle on the proper course, perform, and attain the best grades. With our individualized services, graduates emerge at the top in the global market which translates the aim of studying abroad into success.
Discover the right course that matches your goals
interests, and future career — with expert guidance from SAUK.
About SAUK
Study Advisers UK (SAUK) is a trusted international education consultancy helping students across Pakistan achieve their dreams of studying abroad. With expert guidance, personalized counselling, and strong partnerships with top universities in the UK, Australia, Canada, and Europe, SAUK supports students through every step
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