Nottingham College Student Assessment System

A . (Highest rating,Excellent)

B . (Above average)

C . (middle)

D . (Acceptable is the minimum
rating for success. )

F . (Failed)

In the UK, academic performance is assessed using a specific grading system, and the required grades for passing and failing vary depending on the level of study (secondary or university). Here’s an overview of these grades:

1. Secondary School (GCSE and A-Levels):

GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education):

Grades:
Students are assessed on a scale from 9 to 1 (9 being the highest, 1 being the lowest).

Pass: A grade of 4 or above is generally considered a pass, equivalent to a C in the old system.

Fail: Grades of 3 or below are considered failing.

A-Levels (Advanced Level):

Grades:
Students are graded on a scale from A* (highest) to E (the lowest passing grade).

Pass: Achieving an E or higher is considered a pass.

Fail: If a student receives a U (Ungraded), it means they did not pass the subject.

2. University Level:

In UK universities, the Honours Degree classification system is used to rank undergraduate degrees. Final grades are categorized into four main levels:

First Class:
70% or higher. This is the highest classification, awarded to students with outstanding performance.

Upper Second Class (2:1):
Between 60% and 69%. This is considered a very good degree and is widely recognized.

Lower Second Class (2:2):
Between 50% and 59%. This is an acceptable degree, allowing for graduation but may be less favorable when applying for jobs or further studies.

Third Class:
Between 40% and 49%. This is the lowest level of passing for a university degree.

Fail: Below 40%