Degree Classification Calculator UK 2025 | Predict Your Final Degree Grade

UK degree classifications use these standard boundaries: First Class Honours (1st) = 70% or above, Upper Second Class (2:1) = 60-69%, Lower Second Class (2:2) = 50-59%, Third Class (3rd) = 40-49%, Pass (ordinary degree) = 35-39% at some universities, Fail = below 40%. Most UK universities use these thresholds, though some may have slight variations.

Most UK universities calculate your final degree classification using a weighted average of your second and final year marks. Common weightings are: 1:2 ratio (Year 2 counts 33%, Final year 67%), equal weighting (50% each), or 1:3 ratio (Year 2 counts 25%, Final year 75%). First year marks typically don't count towards your classification but you must pass to progress.

At most UK universities, first year marks do NOT count towards your final degree classification. However, you must pass first year (usually 40% average) to progress to second year. Some universities may use first year as a 'safety net' if you perform worse in later years, and some Scottish universities with 4-year degrees may include year 2 as a foundation year.

A 2:1 (Upper Second) requires 60-69% average and is considered a 'good' degree, often required by competitive graduate employers and many postgraduate courses. A 2:2 (Lower Second) requires 50-59% and is still a respectable achievement, though some employers and courses specify a 2:1 minimum. The 10% difference can significantly impact career options.

In recent years, approximately 30-35% of UK graduates achieve First Class Honours, though this varies significantly by university and subject. The percentage has increased from around 15% in 2010, leading to discussions about 'grade inflation'. At Russell Group universities, the First rate can be 35-40%.

Yes, because final year typically carries more weight (often 60-75% of your overall classification), strong performance in final year can significantly improve your degree. If you're on a 2:2 boundary in second year, achieving 65%+ in final year could push you to a 2:1. Your dissertation is particularly important.

Many UK universities have 'borderline' or 'profiling' rules for students close to classification boundaries (typically within 2%). Common approaches include: checking if 50%+ of credits are in the higher class, considering your best modules, reviewing dissertation performance, or using an exam board's discretion.

Many UK employers, especially graduate schemes at large companies, specify minimum degree requirements. Around 75% of Times Top 100 graduate employers require a 2:1 or above. However, some employers are moving towards 'contextual recruitment' and after 2-3 years of work experience, your degree class becomes less important.