Explore Courses

Frequently Asked Questions

Go back

Q. What is GPA in the UK?

Grade Point Average, or GPA, is a widely used metric to assess a student's academic achievement in the United States. The grading scheme in the UK, however, is very different from the GPA scheme in the US.

Rather than using the GPA system, the grading scheme in the UK usually uses classifications and percentages. In the UK, a student's grade is determined by how well they perform in each course or module. 

These grades, which show the degree of accomplishment in a certain course or module, are sometimes expressed as percentages.

Universities in the UK generally use a classification system for undergraduate degrees, which is different from the GPA. The most common classification system in the UK is:

  1. First-Class (1st): Typically awarded for an overall percentage of 70% or above. This is considered an outstanding level of achievement.
  2. Upper Second-Class (2:1): Awarded for percentages usually ranging between 60% to 69%. It is a solid achievement and is widely regarded as a good degree classification.
  3. Lower Second-Class (2:2): Given for shares that typically fall between 50% and 59% of the total. Although it is still regarded as a pass, it is better than the upper second-class.
  4. Third-Class (3rd): Awarded for percentages typically between 40% to 49%. While it represents a pass, it's a lower classification.
  5. Ordinary Degree (Pass): This degree is occasionally granted without honors, usually for percentages that fall short of 40% but still satisfy the prerequisites.

The UK system emphasizes the overall performance in a degree program, as opposed to the GPA system, which averages all grades received. 

It's vital to remember that although academic performance is evaluated using both systems, the US GPA system prioritizes averaging grades on a 4.0 scale across all courses, while the UK system mainly uses percentages and categories.

Related FAQs

Which intake is best for UK?

Academic years in the UK are normally split into 3 intakes September Intake, January Intake, April Intake....Read More

Is a Study Gap Acceptable in the UK?

In the United Kingdom, a study gap is sometimes frowned upon. Still, its impact largely depends on various factors and how well you explain the gap in your academic or professional journey. Here are key points to consider:...Read More

How do I apply for a student visa for the UK?

A thorough roadmap for negotiating the complexities of the application procedure is provided by the stages that follow....Read More

Are scholarships available for international students in the UK?

Many scholarships are available in the UK to students from various nations who wish to study there. With the aid of these scholarships, students desiring to study here will find it easier to pay for living and the cost of education...Read More

How do I apply to UK universities?

The process of applying to universities in the UK is very straightforward. You have to follow some simple steps, and if you follow every step correctly and meet all the requirements, your application will be done very smoothly....Read More

Discover More on Study Abroad

Explore our Blogs, Webinar & Ebooks to guide your study abroad journey

Must-read Blogs

Must-read Blogs

Access reliable & authentic articles on international education

Read Blogs
Watch Webinars

Watch Webinars

Get guided by industry experts on trending courses, job ecosystem, and much more

Watch Webinars
Free E-Books

Free E-Books

Download and Kickstart your study abroad journey

Read Ebooks