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The uk grading system explained: university degree classifications and what they mean.

Understanding the UK grading system might not seem like the most thrilling topic. But it’s crucial, especially as you gear up for university or face those all-important final exams. 

Think of it like learning the rules of a game. Knowing how final grades are assigned can make a major difference to the way you approach revision and assignments throughout the year.

In this guide, we’ll kick things off with First Class degrees, the highest classification possible in the UK. We’ll also discuss Second Class degrees, before moving on to Third Class and non-honours degrees.

Whatever grades you’re hoping for, remember every academic achievement is valuable – you just have to understand how to use it! 

So, whether you’re feeling the pressure about final grades or just trying to figure out what everything means, here’s the UK grading system explained.

In this article :

Table of Contents

The UK Grading System: An Introduction

What’s the current grading system in the uk.

The UK university grading system can seem a bit confusing at first, but don’t worry! It’s pretty straightforward. Unlike letter grades like A, B, or C, UK universities use degree classifications. This involves a system of Honours degrees, including First Class, Second Class and Third Class degrees. First Class is the best and Third Class is the lowest.

The classifications you’ll encounter are:

• First Class (1st)
• Upper Second Class (2:1)
• Lower Second Class (2:2)
• Third Class (3rd)

Each classification carries its own weight and can influence your next steps after graduation. So it pays to know what you’re on track for.

Degree classifications aren’t just assigned on final exams. They reflect your performance during your three years (or more) of university study. So you’ll typically complete a series of assessments, including essays, projects, presentations or practical work, all contributing to your final grade. 

To earn an honours degree (like a BA Hons or a BSc Hons ), you’ll complete a final project or dissertation showcasing your understanding of what you’ve learned. This isn’t just about memorising facts; it’s about demonstrating critical thinking, problem-solving skills and creative engagement with your subject matter. So while it can feel like a lot of pressure, it’s an opportunity to show what you’re capable of!

What’s the UK grading scale?

The UK university grading scale sets the benchmarks for how your hard work is recognised. Classifications are based on the percentage you’ve achieved over your course. 

Many employers look for at least a 2:1 for graduate roles, while postgraduate programs have similar expectations. Understanding where you fit helps you set goals, track your progress, and feel proud of your accomplishments.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the UK grading scale:

• First Class (1st): 70% and above
• Upper Second Class (2:1): 60-69%
• Lower Second Class (2:2): 50-59%
• Third Class (3rd): 40-49%
• Fail or Non-Hons: 40% or lower

Scores below 40% are generally considered a fail. In this instance, your university might let you move to a non-honours degree, which we’ll cover later in this guide.

If you’re researching universities in the UK, don’t miss our complete guide to London universities as well as other institutions like St Andrews , Bath , Surrey and Lancaster .

The UK Grading System: First Class Degrees

With the overall UK grading system explained, let’s dive into First Class degrees. This classification tops the academic ladder, representing a score of 70% or higher across your assignments, projects and exams.

How rare is a First Class degree?

On average, just under 30% of UK students earn a First Class degree . This varies based on your university and degree course (and shifts slightly each year), but shows it’s a major achievement. #

Earning a First Class degree is no small feat. It demonstrates you’ve mastered your subject and gone above and beyond in your studies. It also opens many doors for highly paid jobs and further academic opportunities. 

So if you’re on track for top marks, understanding how to make a First Class degree shine on your CV is key to unlocking its potential.

Is 70% an A in the UK?

You might think of a score of 70% as equivalent to an A grade, but here’s where it gets tricky. In the UK system, a 70% score usually indicates you’re in First Class territory. But not always! Some of the most competitive universities set the bar at 72% or more.

So check with your subject tutors or department website if you’re unsure.

But if you’re wondering how degrees compare with A Levels , 70% will probably secure you an A at A Level. It might even land you an A*! But this depends on the subject grade boundaries set by exam boards, which change each year. 

To explore the numbers in more detail, look at our guides to A Level Economics , Biology , Maths , Business and Chemistry grade boundaries.

What does “BA with Hons” mean?

When you see “BA with Honours” (or more commonly just “BA Hons”), it signifies that someone’s completed a degree with a greater academic focus than a “standard” Bachelor of Arts (BA).

The key difference lies in the final dissertation or project, as well as the depth you’ll cover.

An Honours degree requires a higher level of commitment, often including additional assessments, research-based coursework, and a final dissertation or major project. These extra components (not normally required for a non-honours BA) showcase independent research skills.

While both degrees are valuable, a BA Hons is often preferred by employers and postgraduate programs. It shows you’ve not only engaged with your subject but have also developed the critical thinking, analysis and research skills to excel in your field.

Can you get a First without Honours?

In short, no. You can’t get a First Class degree without Honours.

Honours degrees come with classifications (like First, 2:1, 2:2, and Third), which show how well you did overall. If you complete a non-honours program (often called an “ordinary degree”), you’ll still graduate, but without a classification like “first” or “2:1.” Instead, it’s simply recorded as a “pass.”

Think of an Honours degree as having a few extra challenges built in. Like more detailed coursework, higher expectations and often a final project or dissertation. This extra work lets you earn a classification and, if all goes well, aim for that top “first” designation !

The UK Grading System: Second Class Degrees

Now we’ve tackled First Class degrees, let’s move on to Second Class degrees. These are still highly regarded and can lead to many opportunities in further studies and the job market.

What’s a 2.1 degree in the UK?

A 2:1 degree, or “Upper Second Class” degree, is typically awarded to students scoring between 60-69% in their studies. This classification is the gold standard for employers – and a common requirement for graduate schemes and competitive postgraduate courses. 

So if you’re on track for a 2:1, you’re well-positioned for great opportunities after graduation. Well done!

Is a 2.1 degree respected?

Absolutely! A 2:1 degree is well-regarded across a wide range of industries. This is especially the case if you attended a leading university – whether that’s a Russell Group or non-Russell Group uni, or a Red Brick institution . 

For many employers, a 2:1 is the standard benchmark. They know it represents a strong understanding of your subject and a solid track record throughout your studies.

Having a 2:1 on your CV (or “Curriculum Vitae” if you want to be fancy) gives you a great start in your career. Employers see it as proof of your dedication and capability, making you eligible for most graduate schemes and jobs.

What’s 60% in UK grades?

An overall score of 60% in your degree places you firmly in the Upper Second Class (2:1) territory. 

While it might not be a First Class, it’s still an excellent achievement reflecting a strong grasp of your material. Students landing in this range exhibit strong analytical skills and a solid understanding of their subjects, which are valuable in any workplace.

If you’re searching for a degree that poses just the right amount of challenge, don’t miss our guides to the hardest and easiest degree programs in the UK.

What’s a 2.2 in UK grading?

A 2:2 degree, or “Lower Second Class”, represents total scores between 50-59%. While it’s not as competitive as a 2:1, it still shows you met all the academic requirements and gained a solid understanding of your course. 

Plenty of students with a 2:2 go on to have successful careers, especially when they build on their degree with practical work experience or skills that stand out to employers. A 2:2 can still be a strong foundation. It’s all about how you use it!

Is a 2.2 Master’s degree good?

A 2.2 in a Master’s degree is generally considered a pass. While it may not be as competitive for some research-focused or highly specialised programs, don’t let this hold you back! 

Most jobs accept graduates with a 2.2, particularly if you emphasise the skills, experience and passion you bring. Employers value well-rounded candidates, so focusing on what you’ve gained from your degree (and any practical skills or professional qualifications you’ve achieved) can make all the difference.

The UK Grading System: Third Class and Non-Hons Degrees

Now we’ve covered First and Second Class degrees, it’s time to discuss Third Class and non-honours degrees. While they may not have the same prestige, they’re still significant academic achievements that absolutely lead to rewarding, well-paid careers.

What’s a Third Class degree?

A Third Class degree (or “3rd”) is awarded for scores between 40-49%. While this is the lowest degree classification, it’s still a pass – and something to be proud of.

Graduates with a Third Class degree might need to be more strategic in their job search, especially in highly competitive fields. But here’s where being proactive pays off: focus on gaining work experience, internships or skills that stand out. Then highlight these on your CV.

For instance:

• Showcase relevant skills : Tailor your CV and cover letters to emphasise the skills and experience you gained during your studies or through extracurriculars.
• Consider extra qualifications : A short course or certificate in a skill relevant to your career path (for instance, accountancy qualifications ) can be a great way to add value.
• Network : Sometimes it’s about who you know. Connect with people in your field, attend industry events, and make the most of any work experience opportunities.

There are many, many successful professionals with Third Class degrees, proving that grades don’t define you. Employers value real-world skills and determination, so get out there and show them you’ve got what it takes.

Is a non-honours degree worth anything?

A non-honours degree still holds significant value. While they lack the “honours” stamp that signals additional academic depth, non-honours degrees are respected qualifications in their own right. 

These degrees can be an ideal choice if you’re focused on gaining foundational knowledge and getting into the workforce sooner.

When it comes to non-honours degrees, it’s helpful to understand there are two main types:

• Non-honours degrees designed as BA or BSc programs : Sometimes called “ordinary” or “pass” degrees, these programs emphasise essential knowledge and hands-on skills, without the research components of honours programs. You’ll often find non-honours options in business, hospitality, media, design and the arts, as well as degree apprenticeships . These programs prepare students for industry roles by offering real-world projects, internships or portfolio-building opportunities.
• Non-honours degrees resulting from an honours program : Some students start in an honours program but, for various reasons, may not complete elements like the final dissertation or meet the required grades. In these cases, the final degree may be awarded as a non-honours qualification. This doesn’t detract from the skills and knowledge gained throughout the course; it simply reflects a shift in the program’s final designation.

So, in fields that value hands-on experience over academic credentials, non-honours degrees are still incredibly useful – especially when paired with work experience or industry-specific skills. Even without the “honours” label, a non-honours degree is a worthwhile qualification.

Looking for support with your degree studies?

If you’re unsure about your next steps or need support to achieve your academic goals, reach out to Academic Coaching. We provide personalised guidance on university applications , help with exam prep and strategies for success , along with graduate coaching to kickstart your career. Your academic journey is unique, and the right support can make all the difference. Let’s take the next step together.

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How does the UK university grading system work?

Whether you’re already studying or are about to, it is important to understand how the UK university grading system works.

When it comes to studying an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in the UK, grading systems vary. Whether you’re about to start your degree, or you are close to the third year of your course, it’s important to understand how your final grade will be calculated. Luckily, it’s easy to understand.

University grading: degree classifications explained

Universities in the UK follow a standard grading system for degree classifications based on the overall percentage achieved. The four university grade boundaries are:

• First-Class Honours (1st) (70% and above): Exceptional academic performance
• Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1) (60-70%): Strong performance, most common degree class
• Lower Second-Class Honours (2:2) (50-60%): Satisfactory performance, widely accepted by employers
• Third-Class Honours (3rd) (40-50%): Minimum passing grade for an honours degree

What is the postgraduate grading system in the UK?

The British postgraduate grading system differs quite a bit from the undergraduate one. Depending on whether you are undergoing an Integrated Masters Degree or a Standalone Masters Degree the grading system will differ. Like undergraduate, Masters Degrees are graded by creating a weighted average, combining all your module results from the year(s).

An integrated masters is one which follows directly from an undergraduate course. Common in Science degrees, where you apply for a four year course. In your second year you will be able to choose to either complete a Bsc (Bachelor of Science) or follow the path to achieve an MChem (Masters in Chemistry) etc. Integrated Masters degrees are graded the same as undergraduate degrees.

Standalone Masters include Masters Degrees by Research and Taught Masters Degrees. Masters degrees by research commonly referred to as MRes or MPhil are focused more on individual research skills with less taught modules. These degrees are usually graded as a pass or a fail.

Taught Masters degrees require a total of 180 credits. These credits are split between assignments, assessments and a dissertation or final project. Each module will have a certain amount of credits attached. For example, you may have single modules weighted at 15 credits, double modules (that span over two semesters) at 30 credits and a dissertation weighted at 60 credits. As taught, Masters Degrees are typically only a year long, every module counts to your final grade.

Instead of a First, Upper Second, Lower Second and Third, there are only three grade classifications for a Masters Degree. These are Distinction, Merit and Pass. The boundaries for these may vary depending on your university, however the common boundaries are shown below.

• Distinction: much like a First at undergraduate level, a Distinction is awarded when you achieve a percentage grade of 70% and above.
• Merit: you’ll be awarded a Merit if you achieve a grade average between 60-69%.
• Pass: a pass is awarded when you receive a grade average between 50-59%.
• Fail: If you do not receive at the minimum an average of 50%, the Masters qualification is not awarded. If you do think you are heading towards failing, try not to stress. You can speak with your module leaders about retaking any assignments or examinations to bump up your grade.

What can I do if I think I am going to fail my degree?

If you feel as if you are heading towards failing your undergraduate or postgraduate degree try not to panic. Easier said than done but you do have plenty of options.

As an undergraduate, you have three or four years to make up the credits you need to pass your course. Therefore, you are able to retake any modules you have failed in other years. For example, if you fail a Film module in first year, you can retake this module in your second year. If you fail numerous modules you are able to retake the entire year.

Another option is to retake any failed assignments or examinations throughout the year. This is easily done through referral or deferral assessments. Referral assessments are like resits, whilst deferrals allow students to postpone any assessments or extend any coursework deadlines. To qualify for a deferral you will need to prove that your performance has been affected by a personal circumstance (e.g. medical condition). To be granted a deferral you will need to fill out an application. Referrals and deferrals can be implemented at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Finally, if you feel as if your grade is an unfair reflection on your work you can submit an appeal. If you do this, your mark will be re-marked or looked back over by an examination board or your lecturers. Simply speak with your lecturers if this is something you would like to do.

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The formula for Masters Degree Grades

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Frequently asked questions.

It depends. If you’re looking for a job after completing your Master's, your grades wouldn’t matter that much. However, good grades will still give you a better reputation as a student and as a potential employee. If you are planning to pursue PhD after Masters, your grades will definitely matter as it reflects your overall academic performance.

Masters involve a lot of independent studying which is difficult to do for some students. There are also higher expectations for postgraduate students when it comes to coursework.

However, just like studying for a Bachelor's degree, students will be able to easily pass if they commit themselves to work hard and spend enough time studying.

Studying masters in the UK will be challenging but it will definitely be worth it.

Masters degree grades follow a pattern, but the grading system for degrees varies from one country to another. Here’s what you need to know about the formula for masters degree grades when it comes to studying a masters in the UK.

What are masters degree grades?

Your Master's degree grades are determined by creating a weighted average. A combination of your results from different assignments that you have completed throughout the course will affect your overall master's degree grade. However, if you’re studying Integrated Masters, your grade will be calculated differently. In Integrated Masters, more weighting will be applied to the latter period of your studies.

Every piece of work is graded differently and different factors will affect your grade depending on the requirements. For example, an essay will be graded completely differently than a presentation or an exam.

Assignments that form part of a degree assessment are marked according to standards that are required by the validating body. In the UK this is the QAA . Some of these will be ‘double-blind marked’. This means that two lecturers or tutors will be reviewing your work and then agree on a grade they would like to give you.

Assessment and weighting

Masters degrees in the UK are worth 180 credits in total. You will earn your credits through a combination of modules, projects, and dissertation - some will be compulsory and some will be optional.

Each module is usually worth 10 to 30 credits depending on the length and the amount of assessment they require. Most universities will have different ways of splitting those 180 credits. For example, you may have six modules each worth 10 credits in your first year. Then get three modules that are worth 20 credits each in your second year and 60 credits for your dissertation in your third year.

Assessments can include:

• Written assessments
• Examinations
• Presentations
• Bibliographies
• Reflective journals

All the mentioned assessments will be weighted differently for each module. The formula for achieving your masters degree grades will depend on your professor, your university, and your chosen subjects.

Masters degree grades and your dissertation

Most universities will require you to do a postgraduate dissertation or thesis during the last year of your study. A dissertation will usually be worth around 60 credits or higher. A masters dissertation is a lengthy written study or piece of coursework on a topic chosen by a student.

While creating a dissertation, all students will be guided by faculty supervisors or professors and will require an extensive amount of time for research and writing. A dissertation is usually divided into chapters and will usually have around 15,000-25,000 words depending on the chosen topic.

In some universities, students might not be required to undertake a dissertation. In that case, students will be required to score highly throughout the rest of their course in order to graduate and finish their Masters degree.

Masters degree results and classifications

Once you have finished your Master's degree, your credits will then translate into either a Distinction, Merit, Pass or Fail. Different universities may have different boundaries but as a general rule:

• Distinction - 70%+
• Merit - 60-69%
• Pass - 50-59%
• Fail - 40-49%

Students who study Integrated Masters will get different results from the one mentioned above. The grading for Integrated Masters will be similar to the grades given in a bachelor's degree:

• First-Class Honours - 70%+
• Upper Second Class Honours - 60-70%
• Lower Second-Class Honours - 50-60%
• Third-Class Honours - 45-50%
• Pass - 40-45%
• Fail - below 40%

How do I get a Distinction in my Masters?

To get a distinction in your Masters, you will need to have at least a 70% or higher grade by the end of your degree. Everyone has unique strategies on how to achieve a Distinction grade but here are a few things you can do to achieve your goal:

• Don’t leave your coursework and dissertation to the last minute. Assignments are given in advance at university to help you prepare enough and do your best on each assignment. Plan ahead and have a proper schedule on when to do your assignments.
• Make the most of the support available to you. You will have professors and supervisors who will be there to help you during your masters, reach out to them or other relevant academics for opinions, insights, and advice.
• Research your dissertation topic thoroughly, do not choose a topic mainly because of your personal interest.
• Explore different angles of various dissertation topics before you make your final choice.

Next Steps:

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