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Degree classification

The British undergraduate degree classification system is a grading scheme that universities use to determine the difference between whether someone achieves a bachelor’s degree or an undergraduate master’s degree and what honours they receive. The different types of honours degrees are:

  • First-Class Honours (First or 1st) (70% and above)
  • Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1, 2.i) (60-70%)
  • Lower Second-Class Honours (2:2, 2.ii) (50-60%)
  • Third-Class Honours (Third or 3rd) (40-50%)
  • Ordinary degree (pass)
  • Fail (no degree is awarded)
  • Unclassified (some degrees aren't classified e.g. medicine or masters degree)

This system does hold a degree of discretion and students can gain a higher or lower honour dependant on variations they make with their assignments. For example, if a student has a lower average but has handed in a large number of higher level papers they may be given a higher honour, similarly to this if a student has a higher average but multiple failed or very low level papers it is reasonable for the university to lower their honours or demote some of their classes.

Considering this, have you been in a situation where you have been unjustifiably lowered a level? If you did not get the degree you were expecting, there are times when the university decision can be challenged.

There has always been some conspiracy with the way that universities grant students honours as the grade boundaries have never been completely fixed. It has been argued that it can be an unfair system as it can use flexibility based on opinion to completely change what a student will achieve.

Even though universities use clear procedures to determine the degree for any student, mistakes can be made. Your overall grade will be decided at the end of your final year of university once you have completed all of your assignments and examinations. It will be decided by the examination board who will determine what each student will achieve during a meeting. This is also where they will decide upon any cases of borderline students or students that have not performed as well as originally expected. Again there is procedure they must follow in these cases.

What to do if you feel there has been a mistake?

For any information on this subject please contact a member of our team. Stephensons are always happy to answer any questions you may have; because we understand how important this process is for your future. We take advantage of our specialist solicitors that know exactly how to handle situation regarding degree classification and want to make sure your rights are protected and you are treated fairly.

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Education law reorder

  • Mike Pemberton
  • Natalie Tolley
  • Maria Chadwick