GPA Calculator for UK Degree Classification
Convert UK degree classifications (First, 2:1, 2:2) to GPA and understand grade boundaries.
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Tags: GPA UK degree classification, UK to GPA conversion, British degree grading
GPA Calculator for UK Degree Classification UK universities classify degrees as First (70%+), 2:1 (60–69%), 2:2 (50–59%), or Third (40–49%). To convert these to a US 4.0 GPA scale, the standard mapping is: First = 4.0, 2:1 = 3.3, 2:2 = 2.7, Third = 2.0. US graduate schools and employers use credential evaluation services like WES for official conversions. --- See our complete guide to calculators and the GPA calculator guide for the US GPA system. How the UK Degree Classification System Works? The UK uses a classification system based on percentage grades rather than letter grades. Each module is graded as a percentage, then a weighted average determines the final classification: | Classification | Percentage Range | Common Name | |---|---|---| | First Class Honours | 70%+ | First / 1st |…
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a First Class Honours in GPA?
A First Class Honours (First) from a UK university, requiring 70% or above, is typically equivalent to a US GPA of 4.0. This is the highest UK classification. For US graduate school applications, WES (World Education Services) and most admissions offices treat a First Class as equivalent to a 4.0.
How do I convert a 2:1 degree to GPA?
A 2:1 (Upper Second Class Honours), requiring 60–69%, is approximately equivalent to a 3.3–3.7 GPA on the US 4.0 scale. The most common conversion used by WES and NACES members places a 2:1 at 3.3. A strong 2:1 near the 70% boundary (like 68–69%) may be treated more favorably.
What are UK degree classifications?
UK bachelor's degrees are classified as: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second Class Honours (2:1, 60–69%), Lower Second Class Honours (2:2, 50–59%), Third Class Honours (40–49%), and Ordinary/Pass (below 40%). The classification is based on a weighted average of module grades across the degree, with final year modules usually weighted more heavily.
Is a UK 2:1 equivalent to a 3.0 GPA?
The standard WES conversion places a UK 2:1 at 3.3 GPA, not 3.0. A 2:2 is typically converted to 2.7–3.0. Different credential evaluation services may produce slightly different results, and US graduate schools increasingly look at the percentage marks (e.g., 65% vs. 60%) rather than just the classification band.
How do US graduate schools evaluate UK degrees?
Most US graduate schools accept credential evaluations from NACES member organizations (WES, ECE, IEE) which convert UK grades to US GPA equivalents. Top graduate programs increasingly request official transcripts with percentage grades, not just the classification. A First from a Russell Group university is typically viewed as competitive for admission.
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