What Exam Score Do I Need to Pass?

Find out the minimum exam mark you need to pass your module. Enter your coursework mark (if applicable), the exam and coursework weightings, and the pass threshold. The calculator handles exam-only modules too.

Common Pass Thresholds

  • Undergraduate: 40% overall module mark
  • Postgraduate: 50% overall module mark

Some modules also require you to pass the exam component separately (e.g. minimum 30% or 40% on the exam itself). Check your module handbook.

Enter Your Details

Your mark for the coursework component
How much coursework counts towards the module (e.g. 40)
How much the exam counts towards the module (e.g. 60)
The minimum overall module mark to pass (typically 40% for undergraduate)

Your Results

How This Calculator Works

Your overall module mark is calculated as:

Module Mark = (Coursework Mark × Coursework Weight) + (Exam Mark × Exam Weight)

To find the exam mark needed to pass, the calculator rearranges this:

Required Exam Mark = (Pass Threshold − Coursework Mark × Coursework Weight) ÷ Exam Weight

For exam-only modules, you simply need to score the pass threshold on the exam itself.

Worked Example

Suppose your module is 40% coursework, 60% exam, with a 40% pass mark:

  • Your coursework mark: 55%
  • Coursework contribution: 55% × 0.40 = 22%
  • Remaining needed from exam: 40% − 22% = 18%
  • Required exam mark: 18% ÷ 0.60 = 30.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I need more than 100% on the exam?

If the required exam mark exceeds 100%, it is mathematically impossible to pass the module. This can happen if your coursework mark is very low relative to the pass threshold. In this case, contact your academic adviser to discuss options such as retaking coursework or the module.

Do I need to pass the exam separately?

Some modules have a "hurdle" requirement where you must achieve a minimum mark on the exam component itself (e.g. at least 30% or 40% on the exam), separate from the overall module pass mark. Check your module handbook or programme regulations.

What is the pass mark for a postgraduate module?

Most UK postgraduate programmes require a 50% overall module mark to pass, compared to 40% for undergraduate. Some may require higher. Enter 50 (or your specific threshold) in the pass threshold field.

What if I haven't done the coursework yet?

If you haven't completed coursework, you can leave the coursework mark blank and set the module type to "Exam Only", or enter an estimated coursework mark to see what exam result you'd need in combination.

Can a strong coursework mark save me?

Yes. A high coursework mark reduces the exam mark needed to pass. For example, with 40% coursework weighting and a coursework mark of 70%, your coursework alone contributes 28% towards the 40% pass threshold, meaning you'd only need about 20% on the exam.

What if I want more than just a pass?

Simply change the pass threshold to your target mark. For example, enter 70 to see what exam mark you'd need for a First-class module result, or 60 for a 2:1-level result.

Does this work for multiple exams?

This calculator is designed for a single exam component. If your module has multiple exams, add their weightings together and use the combined weight. For more detailed breakdowns, try our Coursework Grade Calculator.

What happens if I fail?

If you fail a module, most UK universities allow a retake. Retake marks are often capped at the pass threshold (e.g. 40%). Some universities allow compensation (passing overall despite one failed module) under certain conditions. Check your university's regulations.

Related Tools

Disclaimer: This calculator uses the standard weighted formula for module marks. Some modules may have additional requirements such as minimum exam marks or attendance thresholds. Always check your module handbook.