Predict your final UK university degree classification. Enter your module marks to calculate your weighted average and see if you're on track for a First, 2:1, 2:2, or Third Class Honours degree.
First, select how your university weights each year, then enter your marks below.
Year 2: 33%, Final: 67%
Most common in UK
Year 2: 25%, Final: 75%
Some Russell Group
Year 2: 50%, Final: 50%
Some universities
Final year: 100%
Rare but exists
First year typically doesn't count towards classification, but you must pass (40%+) to progress.
These marks count towards your final classification with the weighting selected above.
Final year carries the most weight. Include your dissertation mark if you have it.
Understanding the standard grade boundaries used by UK universities:
| Classification | Grade Range | Abbreviation | % of Graduates (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Class Honours | 70% and above | 1st | 33% |
| Upper Second Class Honours | 60-69% | 2:1 (Two-One) | 46% |
| Lower Second Class Honours | 50-59% | 2:2 (Two-Two) | 17% |
| Third Class Honours | 40-49% | 3rd (Third) | 3% |
| Ordinary Degree (Pass) | 35-39% | Pass | <1% |
UK universities use different formulas to calculate your final degree classification:
Year 2 contributes 33% and final year contributes 67% of your classification. This is the most widely used system in the UK.
Formula: (Year 2 avg × 1 + Final year avg × 2) ÷ 3
Year 2 contributes 25% and final year contributes 75%. Used by some Russell Group universities.
Formula: (Year 2 avg × 1 + Final year avg × 3) ÷ 4
Both years count equally. Less common but used by some institutions.
Formula: (Year 2 avg + Final year avg) ÷ 2
Scottish universities often include Year 3 (Junior Honours) and Year 4 (Senior Honours) in their calculations, sometimes with 1:3 weighting between these years.
The highest classification, demonstrating exceptional academic achievement. Opens doors to:
A "good" degree, often the minimum requirement for:
A respectable degree that still opens many opportunities:
While limiting some options, you can still:
If your average is close to a classification boundary (typically within 2%), many universities apply special rules that could push you into the higher class:
Situation: You have a 68.5% weighted average (2:1 territory), but 65% of your final year credits scored 70% or above.
Outcome: Under most profiling rules, you'd be upgraded to a First, as the majority of your credits are in First Class territory.
What degree classification do major UK employers require?
| Sector/Employer Type | Typical Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Investment Banking | 2:1 minimum (First preferred) | Plus strong A-Levels, numeracy tests |
| Management Consulting | 2:1 minimum | Case interview performance more important |
| Law (Magic Circle firms) | 2:1 minimum | Some firms now removing degree requirements |
| Civil Service Fast Stream | 2:2 minimum (contextual) | Competency tests matter more |
| Teaching (PGCE) | No formal minimum | Need relevant subject degree |
| Tech/Startups | Often none | Portfolio and skills-based hiring |
| NHS Graduate Schemes | 2:1 or equivalent | Values-based recruitment |
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.
✓ Expert Reviewed — This calculator is reviewed by our team of financial experts and updated regularly with the latest UK tax rates and regulations. Last verified: January 2026.
Last updated: January 2026 | Verified with latest UK rates
Our Degree Classification Calculator provides:
Is this calculator free?
Yes, all our calculators are 100% free to use with no registration required.
Are the results accurate?
Our calculators use verified formulas and are regularly updated for accuracy.
Can I use this on mobile?
Yes, all calculators are fully responsive and work on any device.