How UK Degree Classifications Work

Understanding the UK degree classification system is essential for tracking your academic progress and planning your studies. This guide explains everything you need to know.

The UK Degree Classification System

UK universities award undergraduate honours degrees based on your overall average percentage across all modules. The classification you receive appears on your degree certificate and is important for graduate employment and further study.

The Four Classifications

Classification Percentage Range Common Abbreviation
First Class Honours 70-100% First, 1st
Upper Second Class Honours 60-69% 2:1, Two-one
Lower Second Class Honours 50-59% 2:2, Two-two
Third Class Honours 40-49% Third, 3rd

Below 40%: Typically results in a fail or no honours degree (may receive an ordinary degree or diploma).

How Your Final Grade is Calculated

Year Weightings

Most UK universities don't count all years equally. The typical system is:

  • Year 1 (Level 4): Usually 0% - must pass to progress, but doesn't count towards final classification
  • Year 2 (Level 5): Typically 33-40% of final grade
  • Year 3 (Level 6): Typically 60-67% of final grade

Common Weighting Schemes

  • 40/60: Year 2 = 40%, Year 3 = 60% (most common)
  • 33/67: Year 2 = 33.33%, Year 3 = 66.67%
  • 25/75: Year 2 = 25%, Year 3 = 75%
  • 0/100: Only Year 3 counts (Year 2 must be passed)

Module Credits

Within each year, modules are weighted by credit value:

  • A typical year = 120 credits total
  • Standard module = 10, 15, or 20 credits
  • Dissertation/project = often 40-60 credits

Higher credit modules have more impact on your year average.

Calculation Example

Let's say you're on a 40/60 weighting scheme:

Year 2 (40% weight):

  • Module A (20 credits): 65%
  • Module B (20 credits): 70%
  • Module C (20 credits): 68%
  • Module D (20 credits): 72%
  • Module E (20 credits): 66%
  • Module F (20 credits): 69%

Year 2 average = (65+70+68+72+66+69) / 6 = 68.33%

Year 3 (60% weight):

  • Module G (20 credits): 71%
  • Module H (20 credits): 73%
  • Module I (20 credits): 69%
  • Module J (20 credits): 75%
  • Dissertation (40 credits): 74%

Year 3 average = ((71+73+69+75) × 20 + 74 × 40) / 120 = 72.67%

Final Calculation:

Final grade = (68.33 × 0.4) + (72.67 × 0.6) = 27.33 + 43.60 = 70.93%

Result: First Class Honours! 🎓

Important Variations

Borderline Rules

Many universities have discretionary rules for students on classification boundaries (e.g., 68-69% for a First). Common criteria include:

  • More than 50% of credits at the higher classification
  • Strong performance in final year
  • Exceptional dissertation/project mark

Scottish Degrees

Scottish universities often use a four-year system with different weightings. The honours years (typically years 3 and 4) usually count equally (50/50).

Integrated Masters (e.g., MEng, MSci)

Four-year integrated masters degrees may weight years 3 and 4 differently, often 40/60 or 30/70.

What Your Classification Means

First Class Honours (70%+)

  • Excellent achievement
  • Competitive for top graduate schemes and PhD programs
  • Approximately 25-30% of UK graduates achieve a First

Upper Second Class (2:1) (60-69%)

  • Good achievement
  • Most common classification (around 50% of graduates)
  • Minimum requirement for many graduate jobs and postgraduate courses

Lower Second Class (2:2) (50-59%)

  • Satisfactory achievement
  • May limit some career options but still acceptable for many roles
  • Around 20% of graduates

Third Class Honours (40-49%)

  • Pass standard
  • May significantly limit graduate opportunities
  • Around 5% of graduates

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my Year 1 grade matter?

At most UK universities, Year 1 grades don't count towards your final classification, but you must pass to progress to Year 2. However, they can be important for placement applications or showing early potential.

Can I get a First with some failed modules?

This depends on your university's regulations. Generally, if you've compensated or retaken failed modules, you can still achieve a First. However, some universities cap grades for retaken modules.

How does study abroad affect my classification?

This varies by university. Some count study abroad years fully, some partially, and some only require you to pass. Check with your university's study abroad office.

Are degree classifications standard across all UK universities?

The boundary percentages (70% for First, etc.) are standard, but weighting schemes and borderline rules vary. Always check your specific university's regulations.

Calculate Your Degree Classification

Ready to calculate your own classification? Use our free UK Degree Classification Calculator to see where you stand and what you need to achieve your target grade.