UK Universities GPA Hub

Imperial College London awards degree classifications based on a weighted average of module marks: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), and Third Class (40–49%). The final year typically carries the greatest weight in classification, with many programs weighting the final year at 60% and second year at 40%. Imperial does not use a GPA scale; employers and institutions interpret the degree class directly.

Oxford uses a unique Finals-based classification system. For most undergraduate degrees, classification is determined by the **numerical average of final examination papers** (typically 8 papers, or best 8 of 9 if a thesis is submitted). First Class Honours requires 70%+ average, 2:1 requires 60–69%, 2:2 requires 50–59%, and Third requires 40–49%. There is no year-by-year weighted average system — classification is primarily decided by Finals performance.

Cambridge uses its historic Tripos examination system to classify degrees. Classifications are First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), and Third Class (40–49%). Unlike most universities, Cambridge sets degree class boundaries by examining the distribution of marks each year — meaning the exact percentage threshold can shift slightly year to year. The final year Tripos exams carry the most weight, and earlier years may contribute via preliminary examinations.

UCL awards degree classifications based on a Credit-Weighted Average (CWA) of all module marks. First Class Honours requires 70%+, Upper Second 2:1 requires 60–69%, Lower Second 2:2 requires 50–59%, and Third Class requires 40–49%. The final year is typically weighted at 60% with the penultimate year at 40% for the classification calculation. UCL publishes a detailed Marks and Awards Framework for each faculty.

KCL awards degree classifications on a percentage-based Credit-Weighted Average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), and Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in classification, typically 60–70% of the overall average. KCL applies a standard "borderline" rule, whereby students within 2% below a classification boundary are reviewed by the Examining Board for potential elevation.

Edinburgh uses the Scottish Common Grading Scale (A1–F), with marks on a 0–22 scale alongside standard percentages. For degree classification: First Class Honours requires 70%+, Upper Second 2:1 requires 60–69%, Lower Second 2:2 requires 50–59%, and Third Class requires 40–49%. In Scotland, most undergraduate degrees are 4 years, and classification typically incorporates years 3 and 4. Edinburgh also applies a detailed progression framework unique to Scottish higher education.

The University of Manchester uses a percentage-based credit-weighted average for degree classification: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), and Third Class (40–49%). The final year typically carries the highest weighting (60%) with second year at 40%. Manchester applies a borderline consideration rule for students within 2% of a higher classification boundary.

The University of Bristol awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries approximately 60% of the classification weight. Bristol's academic regulations apply borderline consideration when a student's average falls within 2% below a higher class boundary, reviewing final year unit marks to determine eligibility for uplift.

Warwick awards degree classifications on a percentage credit-weighted average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). Classification is based on a weighted average where the final year has greater weight. Warwick also uses a discretionary "safety net" policy where students' best marks may be favored in borderline situations. Warwick's Economics department uses a specific algorithm known for weighting higher-level modules more.

The University of Glasgow uses a Scottish credit-based system with the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) and Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF). Degree classification follows UK norms: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). Scottish undergraduate degrees are typically 4 years, with classification based primarily on Years 3 and 4 performance.

Southampton awards degree classifications on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The classification is weighted toward the final year, and Southampton applies a borderline consideration policy for students within 2% of a higher class boundary.

Birmingham awards degree classifications using a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). Classification is based on the weighted average of all assessed modules, with the final year accounting for approximately 60% of the total weight. Birmingham applies borderline rules for students within 2% of a higher classification.

Leeds awards degree classifications on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). Final year modules carry the highest weight in the overall classification. Leeds also applies a borderline consideration for students whose weighted average is within 2% of a higher boundary.

Sheffield awards degree classifications on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest classification weight. Sheffield additionally ranks in the top 100 globally for student experience and NSS satisfaction, indicating strong student support alongside academic rigor.

Durham awards degree classifications on a credit-weighted average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in the classification. Durham applies borderline consideration within 2% of a higher boundary, examining profiles of final year performance.

LSE uses a percentage-based credit-weighted classification: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). LSE applies a specific marking scheme where: 60-69 = Upper Second (2A in LSE notation), 50-59 = Lower Second, 40-49 = Third. Final year carries the greatest weight, and LSE applies a borderline review within 2% of a classification boundary.

Nottingham uses a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the most classification weight. Nottingham applies borderline consideration within 2% of a class boundary.

Exeter awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries approximately 60% of the classification weighting. Exeter applies a standard borderline review within 2% of a class boundary.

St Andrews uses the Scottish higher education system. Degree classifications follow UK standards: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). As a Scottish university, most undergraduate degrees are 4 years, with classification based on Years 3 and 4. St Andrews is known for having one of the highest First Class percentages in the UK, driven by strong academic standards and small class sizes.

Bath awards degree classifications on a credit-weighted average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). Bath is particularly well known for its placement year (Year in Industry), and students returning from placement often show improved academic performance. The final year carries the highest classification weight.

Cardiff awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). As the leading university in Wales and a Russell Group member, Cardiff applies a standard UK degree classification system with final year carrying the highest weight in the calculation.

York uses a credit-weighted average for degree classification: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year modules carry the most weight. York's marking scheme is percentage-based, and the university applies borderline consideration within 2% of a class boundary.

Leicester uses a credit-weighted percentage average for degree classification: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the most weight. Leicester applies a standard borderline rule within 2% of a class boundary and is known for its strong student satisfaction scores.

Lancaster awards degree classifications on a percentage credit-weighted average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). Lancaster consistently places in the UK top 10 in domestic league tables, and its final year carries the most classification weight.

Reading awards degree classifications on a credit-weighted average: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). Final year carries the highest weight. Reading has strong programs in meteorology, agriculture, and film studies.

Loughborough uses a percentage credit-weighted average for degree classification: First Class (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). Loughborough has been in the UK top 10 for over a decade, with particular strength in engineering, sports science, and design. Its placement year (sandwich courses) helps improve final year academic performance.

The University of Aberdeen awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted average of module marks following the UK standard: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), and Third Class (40–49%). As a Scottish university, Aberdeen uses the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) and typically awards 4-year Honours degrees. Classification is based primarily on performance in Years 3 and 4, with the final year carrying the greatest weight. Founded in 1495, Aberdeen is Scotland's third oldest and the UK's fifth oldest university.

UEA awards degree classifications on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weighting in the overall classification, typically at 60% with second year contributing 40%. UEA applies borderline consideration for students whose weighted average falls within 2% below a higher classification boundary. UEA is particularly renowned for Creative Writing, Environmental Sciences, and Development Studies.

Newcastle University awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries approximately 60% of the classification weight with the second year contributing 40%. Newcastle is a Russell Group university and applies a borderline consideration policy for students within 2% of a higher classification boundary. It is ranked 137th globally (QS 2026) and 144th globally (THE 2026).

The University of Liverpool awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in classification, typically 60%, with the second year contributing 40%. Liverpool is a Russell Group university and applies a borderline consideration policy for students within 2% of a higher class boundary. It ranked 143rd globally in THE World University Rankings 2026.

Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the greatest weight in classification. QMUL applies a borderline consideration policy for students within 2% of a higher classification. Ranked #110 globally in QS 2026 (up 35 places in two years), QMUL is a Russell Group university and one of London's top research institutions.

The University of Sussex awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). Final year modules carry the greatest weight in classification. Sussex applies a borderline consideration policy for students within 2% of a higher classification boundary. Sussex is ranked #1 globally for Development Studies (QS Subject Rankings) and is known for strong international diversity, with students from over 165 nationalities.

Queen's University Belfast awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the greatest weight in classification, with a borderline consideration policy applied for students within 2% of a higher boundary. Queen's is a Russell Group university ranked #199 globally (QS 2026) and 5th in the world for International Outlook (THE 2026). 99% of its research environment is rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021).

Heriot-Watt University awards degree classifications following the UK standard: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). As a Scottish institution, Heriot-Watt awards 4-year Honours degrees, with classification based primarily on Years 3 and 4. The final year carries the most weight. Established in 1821 as the world's first mechanics institute, Heriot-Watt is the Scottish University of the Year runner-up (Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026) and is particularly known for Engineering, Business, and Computer Science.

City, University of London awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the greatest weight in classification. City joined the University of London federation in 2016, enhancing its profile and access to University of London resources. City is particularly well regarded in Business, Finance, Law, Journalism, and Health Sciences, and maintains strong industry links with the City of London financial district.

The University of Hull awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in the classification, with second year also contributing. Hull applies a borderline consideration policy for students within 2% of a higher classification boundary. Hull is known for its strong programs in Law, Computer Science, and Offshore/Marine engineering, with a focus on energy sector links.

The University of Strathclyde awards degree classifications following the UK standard: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). As a Scottish university, Strathclyde typically awards 4-year Honours degrees, with classification based on Years 3 and 4. The final year carries the most weight. Named UK University of the Year (Daily Mail University Guide 2026) and Scottish University of the Year runner-up (Times & Sunday Times 2026), Strathclyde is particularly known for Engineering, Business, and Education.

Brunel University London awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in the overall classification. Brunel joined the University of London federation in October 2024, strengthening its academic profile. Brunel is ranked in the top 7% globally for sustainability (QS Sustainability 2026) and is known for its sandwich placement year programs and strong STEM focus.

The University of Surrey awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in classification. Surrey is particularly known for its Professional Training Year (PTY) placement programs and has ranked 13th in the UK for graduate employment in high-skilled jobs (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2025). Surrey is strong in Engineering, Physics, Veterinary Medicine, and Hospitality Management.

Keele University awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in classification. Keele is known for its dual honours degree programs and its campus-based community model. It has a strong Medical School and is recognised for its student experience and sustainability initiatives.

Coventry University awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in classification. Coventry has a strong focus on employability and industry connections, consistently performing well in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF). It is one of the UK's largest universities and known for its modern, career-focused approach to higher education.

Northumbria University awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in classification. Northumbria is particularly known for its strong graduate employment outcomes and design programs, and is one of the UK's fastest-growing universities in terms of research output and reputation.

The University of Hertfordshire awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the greatest weight in classification. Hertfordshire is known for its strong industry links, particularly in aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and computing, and its large campus includes one of the UK's best dedicated student accommodation facilities.

Aston University awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the greatest weight in classification. Aston has risen more than 165 places in the QS World Rankings over three years, placing in the top 5% of globally evaluated institutions (QS 2026). Aston is particularly known for its integrated placement year programs and strong graduate employment outcomes.

The University of Essex awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in classification. Essex is globally recognised for Politics, Social Sciences, Economics, and Data Science, and has a highly international student body with students from over 130 countries.

Kingston University London awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in classification. Kingston is known for its strong Fashion and Art programs, Pharmacy, and Nursing, and benefits from its location in the Greater London area with access to major industry employers and cultural institutions.

The University of Greenwich awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in classification. Greenwich is based in one of the UK's most historic UNESCO World Heritage Site locations. It is known for strong programs in Architecture, Engineering, Computing, and Business, and benefits from its London location.

Robert Gordon University (RGU) awards degree classifications following UK standards: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). As a Scottish institution, RGU typically offers 4-year Honours degrees under the SCQF framework, with classification based primarily on Years 3 and 4. RGU is consistently ranked as one of the top UK universities for graduate employment outcomes, with government statistics showing it as a top UK university for graduate employment. It has particular strengths in Energy, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Creative Industries.

The University of Dundee awards degree classifications following UK standards: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). As a Scottish university, Dundee offers 4-year Honours degrees under the SCQF framework, with classification based primarily on Years 3 and 4, with the final year carrying the greatest weight. Dundee is globally recognised for Medicine, Dentistry, Life Sciences, and Art and Design, and ranked in the QS top 400 globally.

Swansea University awards degree classifications based on a credit-weighted percentage average: First Class Honours (70%+), Upper Second 2:1 (60–69%), Lower Second 2:2 (50–59%), Third Class (40–49%). The final year carries the highest weight in classification. Swansea applies a borderline consideration policy for students within 2% of a higher classification boundary. Swansea has achieved its highest ever ranking in the THE World University Rankings (top 300 globally, THE 2026) and is particularly known for Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine, and its stunning Bay Campus on Swansea Bay.