The United States and the United Kingdom are home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, high research outputs, and excellent academic standards. Both countries are also popular destinations for international students, offering world-class education and strong post-graduate opportunities.

If you are considering studying abroad, understanding the differences between the UK and US grading systems is essential. This guide explains how each system works, how grades are classified, and what they mean for your academic journey.

UK Grading System Explained

The UK university grading system might look confusing at first, especially if you are used to the American GPA scale. Unlike the US, which relies heavily on letter grades and a cumulative GPA, the UK uses a degree classification system based on percentages.

Undergraduate Degree Classifications

Note: A 2:1 (Upper Second) is the standard requirement for postgraduate admission in the UK and is often considered equivalent to around a 3.3 GPA in the US.

Master’s Degree Classifications

For postgraduate taught degrees (Master’s), the classification is slightly different:

• Distinction: 70% and above

• Merit: 60–69%

• Pass: 50–59%

• Fail: Below 50%

Research-based master’s and PhD degrees are usually graded as Pass or Fail.

Key Differences from the US

• In the UK, 70% is exceptional. It is not the same as a “C” in the US. A 70% in Britain means you are performing at the highest academic level.

• UK grading is more final-exam and dissertation-heavy, while the US system relies more on continuous assessment.

• Employers and universities abroad often ask for a UK–US grade conversion, but exact equivalents vary by institution.

  
  

US Grading System Explained

In the United States, most bachelor’s degrees take four years to complete, requiring around 120–128 credit hours. Students are considered full-time with at least 12 credit hours per semester, though many take 15 to graduate on time (U.S. Department of Education).

Unlike the UK, the US system uses a letter-grade scale combined with a Grade Point Average (GPA), which is calculated on a 4.0 scale.

Letter Grades and GPA

Note: Each university sets its own grading policies. Some do not award A+, and cutoff percentages may vary.

How GPA Is Calculated

1. Convert each letter grade into grade points (e.g., A = 4.0, B = 3.0).

2. Multiply the grade points by the credit hours of the course.

3. Add up the total quality points for all courses.

4. Divide total quality points by total credit hours.

Example: An A (4.0) in a 3-credit course = 12 quality points.

Academic Honours in the US

Like the UK, the US recognises high-achieving students with awards:

• Summa cum laude: Highest honours, often GPA 3.9–4.0 or top 5–10%.

• Magna cum laude: Great honours, GPA 3.7–3.89 or top 10–15%.

• Cum laude: With honours, GPA 3.5–3.69 or top 20–30%.

• Dean’s List: Recognition for academic achievement, usually GPA 3.5+.

• Valedictorian and Salutatorian: The Top two students in a graduating class.
  
  

Assessment Styles: UK vs US

Another important difference is how grades are earned.

• US system: Assessments are continuous, with multiple small assignments, quizzes, projects, and exams throughout the semester. Final grades are an average of all performances.

• UK system: Assessments often rely more on final exams, dissertations, or major essays. Some fields, such as arts and humanities, place more weight on coursework.

This means the US system rewards consistent effort across the semester, while the UK system places more emphasis on performance in major assessments.

Which System Is Right for You?

Both the UK and US grading systems are highly respected, but they operate differently. If you are an international student planning to study abroad, understanding these differences will help you set realistic expectations and prepare for your academic journey.

To explore more, check out our related guides: The Cost of Living in Australia vs the UK: A Comprehensive Guide and UK vs USA vs Australia: Where Should You Study Abroad?.