The grading system in universities across Ghana plays a crucial role in evaluating students’ academic performance and determining their overall standing in their respective programs. This system is designed to assess students based on their coursework, examinations, and continuous assessments, ensuring a fair and standardized approach to academic evaluation.
Ghanaian universities typically adopt a Grade Point Average (GPA) or Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) system, which assigns numerical values to letter grades. These grades correspond to percentage scores obtained in various courses, with different distinctions, passes, and failure classifications. The grading system also influences students’ academic progression, scholarship eligibility, honors classifications, and career opportunities.
While most universities in Ghana follow a similar grading structure, there may be slight variations in the interpretation of grades, classification of degrees, and weightage given to coursework and final examinations. Understanding how this system works is essential for students, parents, and educators, as it provides insight into academic expectations and performance benchmarks.
This article explores the grading scale used in Ghanaian universities, the classification of degrees, the impact of grades on students’ academic and professional futures, and key considerations for maintaining a strong academic record.
Universities in Ghana and their Grading System:
- University of Ghana Grading System
- KNUST Grading System
- University of Cape Coast (UCC) Grading System
- University of Education (UEW) Grading System
- University for Development Studies (UDS) Grading System
- University for Professional Studies (UPSA) Grading System
- Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) Grading System
- University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) Grading System
- GIMPA Grading System
- UHAS Grading System
1. University of Ghana Grading System
The Final Grade Point Averages (FGPAs) are as follows:
- 3.60- 4.00-First Class Honours
- 3.00-3.59 -Second Class Honours (Upper Division)
- 2.00-2.99- Second Class Honours (Lower Division)
- 1.50-1.99- Third Class Honours
- 1.00-1.49- Pass
- 0.99- Fail
GRADING SYSTEM
a. Student performance in a course shall be graded as follows:
| GRADE | MARKS | POINTS | INTERPRETATION |
| A | 80 – 100 | 4.0 | Outstanding |
| B+ | 75 – 79 | 3.5 | Very Good |
| B | 70 – 74 | 3.0 | Good |
| C+ | 65 – 69 | 2.5 | Fairly Good |
| C | 60 – 64 | 2.0 | Average |
| D+ | 55 -59 | 1.5 | Below Average |
| D | 50 – 54 | 1.0 | Marginal Pass |
| E | 45 – 49 | 0.5 | Unsatisfactory |
| F | 0 – 44 | 0 | Fail |
Note: *Although this is a failing grade, it may still be accepted as fulfilling a prerequisite for other courses.
Other Grades
| GRADE | INTERPRETATION | GRADE POINT |
| X | Fail | 0 |
| Z | Disqualification | 0 |
| I | Incomplete | 0 |
| Y | Continuing | 0 |
| AUDI | Audit | 0 |
b. Grade Point (GP): Each Grade is assigned an equivalent grade point as indicated above. The number of
(grade) points earned by a student, for each course completed, is computed as the product of the number of credits for the course and the grade point equivalent letter of the grade obtained in that course.
c. Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA): The student’s cumulative grade point average is calculated by
dividing the total number of grade points obtained, up to any specified time, by the total number of credits of all courses for which the student has registered up to that time.
d. Final Grade Point Average (FGPA): The FGPA is the CGPA for all courses under consideration calculate
up to the end of a student’s academic programme.
DEFINITION OF GRADES
a. Pass Grades: Grades A to D constitute Pass grades.
b. Failure Grades: Grades E, F, X, and Z constitute Failure grades.
c. Continuing: A grade Y (for Continuing) is awarded at the end of a semester to any student who takes a course that continues into the next semester.
d. Audit: A grade AUDI is awarded for attendance at lectures where no examination is taken, or where an examination is taken, but no mark can be returned, for good reasons. The Grade AUDI is not taken into account in the calculation of the FGPA.
e. Non-Completion of Course:
i) A grade I (for Incomplete) is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course for
reasons adjudged by the Board of Examiners as satisfactory. Such a student is expected to
complete the course the very next time the course is available.
ii) A grade X is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course for reasons adjudged by
the Board of Examiners as unsatisfactory.
f. Disqualification:
i) A grade Z denotes Disqualification from an examination as a result of an examination malpractice
or offense, and is awarded whenever it is established that a candidate had attempted to gain an
an unfair advantage in an examination, be it in a Principal subject, an Ancillary, or any other paper.
ii) A candidate awarded a grade Z may be debarred from taking a University Examination for a stated
period, or indefinitely, or may be expelled from the University altogether.
iii) A grade Z may be awarded only by the Board of Examiners.
References: (Refer to pages 46 and 50 of Regulations for Junior Members, Vol. 1; September 2016).
2. KNUST Grading System
At Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), student performance is evaluated using the Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA) system. This grading approach calculates a student’s overall academic performance by averaging their scores across all subjects within their course of study. Rather than assessing each subject in isolation, the CWA provides a comprehensive measure of a student’s progress over time, taking into account both coursework and examinations.
In most cases, KNUST assigns 70% of a student’s final grade to examinations, while the remaining 30% is based on other academic activities. These include mid-semester tests, assignments, research projects, group work, practical sessions, and other course-related engagements. The specific breakdown may vary depending on the lecturer’s assessment criteria and the nature of the course. This combined evaluation results in a total score of 100%, reflecting both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
The CWA is calculated by factoring in the scores obtained and the credit weight assigned to each subject. Every student starts their first semester with a default CWA of 100.00, which then adjusts as they complete exams and other assessments. As the semester progresses, their weighted average is recalculated, ultimately determining their cumulative academic standing. The KNUST grading system follows a structured scale, ensuring fairness and consistency in performance evaluation.
KNUST Grading Scale:
| First-class | 70 and above |
| Second class-upper | 69.99 – 60.00 |
| Second class-upper | 59.00 -50.00 |
| Third class | 49.00 40.00 |
KNUST Grading System:
| GRADE | MARKS/SCORE | GRADE COMMENTS |
| A | 70.00 – 100 | Excellent |
| B | 60.00 – 69.99 | Very-Good |
| C | 50.00 – 59.99 | Good |
| D | 40.00 – 49.99 | Pass |
| F | 0.00- 49.00 | Fail |
| I | Incomplete (medical reason) | |
| I* | Incomplete ( mark not available) | |
| I’ | Incomplete ( prevented from writing the examination) | |
| DF | could not register or attend lectures for a class | |
| DF* | attended lectures but could not write examinations due to work schedule |
3. University of Cape Coast (UCC) Grading System
To assess students, the University operates a combination of Continuous Assessment and End-of-Semester Examination with the following weightings:
| CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT | 40% |
| END-OF-SEMESTER EXAMINATION | 60% |
The Continuous Assessment component consists of take-home assignments, class quizzes and tests, term papers, and practical work. This component gives students the chance to demonstrate their abilities on a wider variety of learning tasks and a broader variety of work environments than is possible under formal examination conditions. For example, through continuous assessment, students can learn the values and processes of teamwork, plan, and solve real-life problems. There is a minimum of two (2) Continuous Assessments per course per semester.
UCC Grading Scale
The University uses letter grades and corresponding numerical weightings which reflect the quality of performance. Total raw scores (combination of continuous assessment and end-of-semester examination) are converted according to the following scheme:
| Raw Score | Grade | Grade Point | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80 – 100 | A | 4.0 | Excellent |
| 75 – 79 | B+ | 3.5 | Very Good |
| 70 – 74 | B | 3.0 | Good |
| 65 – 69 | C+ | 2.5 | Average |
| 60 – 64 | C | 2.0 | Fair |
| 55 – 59 | D+ | 1.5 | barely satisfactory |
| 50 – 54 | D | 1.0 | Weak Pass |
| Below 50 | E | 0 | Fail |
Other Grades
Audit – The grade point is zero.
Incomplete (IC) – A student is graded IC when he/she misses one or more components of the assessment.
Degree Classification
Undergraduate degree programmes are classified according to the candidate’s Cumulative Grade Point Average [CGPA]. The classifications are as follows:
| CLASS DESIGNATION | C.G.P.A. |
|---|---|
| 1st Class | 3.6 – 4.0 |
| 2nd Class [Upper Division] | 3.0 – 3.5 |
| 2nd Class [Lower Division] | 2.5 – 2.9 |
| 3rd Class Division | 2.0 – 2.4 |
| Pass | 1.0 – 1.9 |
4. University of Education, Winneba (UEW) Grading System
Assessment of a student’s performance is by a combination of:
(a) Continuous Assessment; and
(b) End-of-Semester Examinations.
(c) The weightings for the two modes of assessment are as follows:
Mode of Assessment
| MODE | WEIGHTING |
| Continuous Assessment | 40% |
| End of Semester Examination | 60% |
| TOTAL | 100% |
ii. The minimum pass mark for a course is 50%.
iii. If the CGPA of a student is less than 1.0, he/she is completely
withdrawn from the University
Marks and Grade Point Equivalence
| MARK | GRADE | GP | DESCRIPTION |
| 80 – 100 | A | 4.0 | Excellent |
| 75 – 79 | B+ | 3.5 | Very Good |
| 70 – 74 | B | 3.0 | Good |
| 65 – 69 | C+ | 2.5 | Average |
| 60 – 64 | C | 2.0 | Fair |
| 55 – 59 | D+ | 1.5 | Barely Satisfactory |
| 50 – 54 | D | 1.0 | Weak Pass |
| 0 – 49 | E | 0 | Fail |
Grade Labels and Description
The pass grades are “A” to “D”
(a) Failure Grade:
Failure mark is scoring 49 or below. A letter grade of “E” is awarded.
(b) Non-completion of Course Work:
The following designations is used for types of noncompletion of coursework described below:
Table of Academic Jargon
| Notation | Description |
| IC | Incomplete |
| W | Drop after Deadline |
| UD | Unofficial Drop |
| X | Disqualification |
| Y | Work Still in Progress |
| Z | Examination Malpractice |
a) An “I C” grade (Incomplete) is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course for reasons of ill-health justified by the Faculty/Department as satisfactory.
(b) A “W” grade (Drop) is awarded to a student who drops a course he/she registered within the stipulated schedule (i.e., by the third week in a full semester or the second week in a sandwich session).
(c) A “UD” grade (Unofficial Drop) is awarded to a student who registers for a course and either never attends or stops attending— but does not officially drop the course. A designation of “UD” i
equivalent to a grade of “E” (Fail).
(d) An “X” grade (Disqualification) is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course for reasons of ill health or reasons other than ill health and justified by the Faculty/Department as satisfactory. Such a student shall be expected to complete the course the very next time the course is available.
(e) A “Y” grade (Work Still in Progress) is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course designed with a multi-term sequence, i.e., going beyond one semester.
(f) A “Z” grade (Examination Malpractice or Offence) is awarded to a student whenever it is established that the student had attempted to gain an unfair advantage in an examination, be it in an end-of-semester examination, continuous assessment, or any other category of assessment. Such a student is debarred from taking any of the University’s examinations for a stated period, or indefinitely, or may be expelled from the University altogether.
5. University For Development Studies (UDS) Grading System
i. Student performance in a course is recorded in letter grades after due conversion from percentage score as follows:
| % Scores | Grade | Grade Point | Remarks |
| 80 – 100 | A+ | 5.0 | Excellent |
| 70 – <80 | A | 4.5 | Very Good |
| 65 – < 70 | B+ | 4.0 | Good |
| 60 – <65 | B | 3.5 | Above Average |
| 55 – < 60 | C+ | 3.0 | Average |
| 50 – <55 | C | 2.5 | Satisfactory |
| 45 – <50 | D+ | 2.0 | Pass |
| 40 – <45 | D | 1.5 | Fair |
| 0 – <40 | F | 0.0 | Fail |
ii. A grade I is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course for reasons adjudged by the Board of Examiners as satisfactory. Such a student is expected to complete the course at the next available opportunity without penalty.
iii. Each course is graded out of 100 marks (including continuous assessment marks). For most taught courses, final examinations shall account for 75% of the total marks.
iv. A zero mark is entered for non-registration of prescribed courses or failed lower-level courses and for absence from examination.
NB: The following letter grade is assigned
I – Incomplete
Z – for involvement in Examination malpractice
Computation of Grade Point Average
In each Trimester the following is computed from the student’s course marks:
• Total Grade Points (TGP): Computed by multiplying the grade point score for each course by the corresponding credit unit, and then summed up.
• Total Credit Units (TCU) for all courses offered for which the TGP has been obtained and for all other courses that are required to be offered e.g. trailed courses. Calculated by adding together credit values of all courses taken.
•Grade Point Average (GPA) and Cumulative Grade Point
Average (CGPA) is computed by taking into account all required courses offered up to the current trimester. The first GPA computation for each student is the same as the CGPA.
GPA = TGP/TCU
CGPA = E(TGP/TCU)
Grade Classification
Class of Degree CGPA
First Class Honours 4.50 – 5.00
Second Class Honours (Upper Division) 3.50 – 4.49
Second Class Honours (Lower Division) 2.50 – 3.49
Third Class 2.00 – 2.49
Pass 1.50 – 1.99
Fail < 1.50
Diploma certificates are awarded based on students’ CGPA at the end of the programme as follows:
Class of Diploma CGPA
Distinction 4.50 – 5.00
Pass 1.50 – 4.49
Fail < 1.50
The grading system in universities across Ghana plays a crucial role in evaluating students’ academic performance and determining their overall standing in their respective programs. This system is designed to assess students based on their coursework, examinations, and continuous assessments, ensuring a fair and standardized approach to academic evaluation.
Ghanaian universities typically adopt a Grade Point Average (GPA) or Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) system, which assigns numerical values to letter grades. These grades correspond to percentage scores obtained in various courses, with different distinctions, passes, and failure classifications. The grading system also influences students’ academic progression, scholarship eligibility, honors classifications, and career opportunities.
While most universities in Ghana follow a similar grading structure, there may be slight variations in the interpretation of grades, classification of degrees, and weightage given to coursework and final examinations. Understanding how this system works is essential for students, parents, and educators, as it provides insight into academic expectations and performance benchmarks.
This article explores the grading scale used in Ghanaian universities, the classification of degrees, the impact of grades on students’ academic and professional futures, and key considerations for maintaining a strong academic record.
Universities in Ghana and their Grading System:
- University of Ghana Grading System
- KNUST Grading System
- University of Cape Coast (UCC) Grading System
- University of Education (UEW) Grading System
- University for Development Studies (UDS) Grading System
- University for Professional Studies (UPSA) Grading System
- Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) Grading System
- University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) Grading System
- GIMPA Grading System
- UHAS Grading System
1. University of Ghana Grading System
The Final Grade Point Averages (FGPAs) are as follows:
- 3.60- 4.00-First Class Honours
- 3.00-3.59 -Second Class Honours (Upper Division)
- 2.00-2.99- Second Class Honours (Lower Division)
- 1.50-1.99- Third Class Honours
- 1.00-1.49- Pass
- 0.99- Fail
GRADING SYSTEM
a. Student performance in a course shall be graded as follows:
| GRADE | MARKS | POINTS | INTERPRETATION |
| A | 80 – 100 | 4.0 | Outstanding |
| B+ | 75 – 79 | 3.5 | Very Good |
| B | 70 – 74 | 3.0 | Good |
| C+ | 65 – 69 | 2.5 | Fairly Good |
| C | 60 – 64 | 2.0 | Average |
| D+ | 55 -59 | 1.5 | Below Average |
| D | 50 – 54 | 1.0 | Marginal Pass |
| E | 45 – 49 | 0.5 | Unsatisfactory |
| F | 0 – 44 | 0 | Fail |
Note: *Although this is a failing grade, it may still be accepted as fulfilling a prerequisite for other courses.
Other Grades
| GRADE | INTERPRETATION | GRADE POINT |
| X | Fail | 0 |
| Z | Disqualification | 0 |
| I | Incomplete | 0 |
| Y | Continuing | 0 |
| AUDI | Audit | 0 |
b. Grade Point (GP): Each Grade is assigned an equivalent grade point as indicated above. The number of
(grade) points earned by a student, for each course completed, is computed as the product of the number of credits for the course and the grade point equivalent letter of the grade obtained in that course.
c. Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA): The student’s cumulative grade point average is calculated by
dividing the total number of grade points obtained, up to any specified time, by the total number of credits of all courses for which the student has registered up to that time.
d. Final Grade Point Average (FGPA): The FGPA is the CGPA for all courses under consideration calculate
up to the end of a student’s academic programme.
DEFINITION OF GRADES
a. Pass Grades: Grades A to D constitute Pass grades.
b. Failure Grades: Grades E, F, X, and Z constitute Failure grades.
c. Continuing: A grade Y (for Continuing) is awarded at the end of a semester to any student who takes a course that continues into the next semester.
d. Audit: A grade AUDI is awarded for attendance at lectures where no examination is taken, or where an examination is taken, but no mark can be returned, for good reasons. The Grade AUDI is not taken into account in the calculation of the FGPA.
e. Non-Completion of Course:
i) A grade I (for Incomplete) is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course for
reasons adjudged by the Board of Examiners as satisfactory. Such a student is expected to
complete the course the very next time the course is available.
ii) A grade X is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course for reasons adjudged by
the Board of Examiners as unsatisfactory.
f. Disqualification:
i) A grade Z denotes Disqualification from an examination as a result of an examination malpractice
or offense, and is awarded whenever it is established that a candidate had attempted to gain an
an unfair advantage in an examination, be it in a Principal subject, an Ancillary, or any other paper.
ii) A candidate awarded a grade Z may be debarred from taking a University Examination for a stated
period, or indefinitely, or may be expelled from the University altogether.
iii) A grade Z may be awarded only by the Board of Examiners.
References: (Refer to pages 46 and 50 of Regulations for Junior Members, Vol. 1; September 2016).
2. KNUST Grading System
At Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), student performance is evaluated using the Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA) system. This grading approach calculates a student’s overall academic performance by averaging their scores across all subjects within their course of study. Rather than assessing each subject in isolation, the CWA provides a comprehensive measure of a student’s progress over time, taking into account both coursework and examinations.
In most cases, KNUST assigns 70% of a student’s final grade to examinations, while the remaining 30% is based on other academic activities. These include mid-semester tests, assignments, research projects, group work, practical sessions, and other course-related engagements. The specific breakdown may vary depending on the lecturer’s assessment criteria and the nature of the course. This combined evaluation results in a total score of 100%, reflecting both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
The CWA is calculated by factoring in the scores obtained and the credit weight assigned to each subject. Every student starts their first semester with a default CWA of 100.00, which then adjusts as they complete exams and other assessments. As the semester progresses, their weighted average is recalculated, ultimately determining their cumulative academic standing. The KNUST grading system follows a structured scale, ensuring fairness and consistency in performance evaluation.
KNUST Grading Scale:
| First-class | 70 and above |
| Second class-upper | 69.99 – 60.00 |
| Second class-upper | 59.00 -50.00 |
| Third class | 49.00 40.00 |
KNUST Grading System:
| GRADE | MARKS/SCORE | GRADE COMMENTS |
| A | 70.00 – 100 | Excellent |
| B | 60.00 – 69.99 | Very-Good |
| C | 50.00 – 59.99 | Good |
| D | 40.00 – 49.99 | Pass |
| F | 0.00- 49.00 | Fail |
| I | Incomplete (medical reason) | |
| I* | Incomplete ( mark not available) | |
| I’ | Incomplete ( prevented from writing the examination) | |
| DF | could not register or attend lectures for a class | |
| DF* | attended lectures but could not write examinations due to work schedule |
3. University of Cape Coast (UCC) Grading System
To assess students, the University operates a combination of Continuous Assessment and End-of-Semester Examination with the following weightings:
| CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT | 40% |
| END-OF-SEMESTER EXAMINATION | 60% |
The Continuous Assessment component consists of take-home assignments, class quizzes and tests, term papers, and practical work. This component gives students the chance to demonstrate their abilities on a wider variety of learning tasks and a broader variety of work environments than is possible under formal examination conditions. For example, through continuous assessment, students can learn the values and processes of teamwork, plan, and solve real-life problems. There is a minimum of two (2) Continuous Assessments per course per semester.
UCC Grading Scale
The University uses letter grades and corresponding numerical weightings which reflect the quality of performance. Total raw scores (combination of continuous assessment and end-of-semester examination) are converted according to the following scheme:
| Raw Score | Grade | Grade Point | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80 – 100 | A | 4.0 | Excellent |
| 75 – 79 | B+ | 3.5 | Very Good |
| 70 – 74 | B | 3.0 | Good |
| 65 – 69 | C+ | 2.5 | Average |
| 60 – 64 | C | 2.0 | Fair |
| 55 – 59 | D+ | 1.5 | barely satisfactory |
| 50 – 54 | D | 1.0 | Weak Pass |
| Below 50 | E | 0 | Fail |
Other Grades
Audit – The grade point is zero.
Incomplete (IC) – A student is graded IC when he/she misses one or more components of the assessment.
Degree Classification
Undergraduate degree programmes are classified according to the candidate’s Cumulative Grade Point Average [CGPA]. The classifications are as follows:
| CLASS DESIGNATION | C.G.P.A. |
|---|---|
| 1st Class | 3.6 – 4.0 |
| 2nd Class [Upper Division] | 3.0 – 3.5 |
| 2nd Class [Lower Division] | 2.5 – 2.9 |
| 3rd Class Division | 2.0 – 2.4 |
| Pass | 1.0 – 1.9 |
4. University of Education, Winneba (UEW) Grading System
Assessment of a student’s performance is by a combination of:
(a) Continuous Assessment; and
(b) End-of-Semester Examinations.
(c) The weightings for the two modes of assessment are as follows:
Mode of Assessment
| MODE | WEIGHTING |
| Continuous Assessment | 40% |
| End of Semester Examination | 60% |
| TOTAL | 100% |
ii. The minimum pass mark for a course is 50%.
iii. If the CGPA of a student is less than 1.0, he/she is completely
withdrawn from the University
Marks and Grade Point Equivalence
| MARK | GRADE | GP | DESCRIPTION |
| 80 – 100 | A | 4.0 | Excellent |
| 75 – 79 | B+ | 3.5 | Very Good |
| 70 – 74 | B | 3.0 | Good |
| 65 – 69 | C+ | 2.5 | Average |
| 60 – 64 | C | 2.0 | Fair |
| 55 – 59 | D+ | 1.5 | Barely Satisfactory |
| 50 – 54 | D | 1.0 | Weak Pass |
| 0 – 49 | E | 0 | Fail |
Grade Labels and Description
The pass grades are “A” to “D”
(a) Failure Grade:
Failure mark is scoring 49 or below. A letter grade of “E” is awarded.
(b) Non-completion of Course Work:
The following designations is used for types of noncompletion of coursework described below:
Table of Academic Jargon
| Notation | Description |
| IC | Incomplete |
| W | Drop after Deadline |
| UD | Unofficial Drop |
| X | Disqualification |
| Y | Work Still in Progress |
| Z | Examination Malpractice |
a) An “I C” grade (Incomplete) is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course for reasons of ill-health justified by the Faculty/Department as satisfactory.
(b) A “W” grade (Drop) is awarded to a student who drops a course he/she registered within the stipulated schedule (i.e., by the third week in a full semester or the second week in a sandwich session).
(c) A “UD” grade (Unofficial Drop) is awarded to a student who registers for a course and either never attends or stops attending— but does not officially drop the course. A designation of “UD” i
equivalent to a grade of “E” (Fail).
(d) An “X” grade (Disqualification) is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course for reasons of ill health or reasons other than ill health and justified by the Faculty/Department as satisfactory. Such a student shall be expected to complete the course the very next time the course is available.
(e) A “Y” grade (Work Still in Progress) is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course designed with a multi-term sequence, i.e., going beyond one semester.
(f) A “Z” grade (Examination Malpractice or Offence) is awarded to a student whenever it is established that the student had attempted to gain an unfair advantage in an examination, be it in an end-of-semester examination, continuous assessment, or any other category of assessment. Such a student is debarred from taking any of the University’s examinations for a stated period, or indefinitely, or may be expelled from the University altogether.
5. University For Development Studies (UDS) Grading System
i. Student performance in a course is recorded in letter grades after due conversion from percentage score as follows:
| % Scores | Grade | Grade Point | Remarks |
| 80 – 100 | A+ | 5.0 | Excellent |
| 70 – <80 | A | 4.5 | Very Good |
| 65 – < 70 | B+ | 4.0 | Good |
| 60 – <65 | B | 3.5 | Above Average |
| 55 – < 60 | C+ | 3.0 | Average |
| 50 – <55 | C | 2.5 | Satisfactory |
| 45 – <50 | D+ | 2.0 | Pass |
| 40 – <45 | D | 1.5 | Fair |
| 0 – <40 | F | 0.0 | Fail |
ii. A grade I is awarded to a student who is unable to complete a course for reasons adjudged by the Board of Examiners as satisfactory. Such a student is expected to complete the course at the next available opportunity without penalty.
iii. Each course is graded out of 100 marks (including continuous assessment marks). For most taught courses, final examinations shall account for 75% of the total marks.
iv. A zero mark is entered for non-registration of prescribed courses or failed lower-level courses and for absence from examination.
NB: The following letter grade is assigned
I – Incomplete
Z – for involvement in Examination malpractice
Computation of Grade Point Average
In each Trimester the following is computed from the student’s course marks:
• Total Grade Points (TGP): Computed by multiplying the grade point score for each course by the corresponding credit unit, and then summed up.
• Total Credit Units (TCU) for all courses offered for which the TGP has been obtained and for all other courses that are required to be offered e.g. trailed courses. Calculated by adding together credit values of all courses taken.
•Grade Point Average (GPA) and Cumulative Grade Point
Average (CGPA) is computed by taking into account all required courses offered up to the current trimester. The first GPA computation for each student is the same as the CGPA.
GPA = TGP/TCU
CGPA = E(TGP/TCU)
Grade Classification
Class of Degree CGPA
First Class Honours 4.50 – 5.00
Second Class Honours (Upper Division) 3.50 – 4.49
Second Class Honours (Lower Division) 2.50 – 3.49
Third Class 2.00 – 2.49
Pass 1.50 – 1.99
Fail < 1.50
Diploma certificates are awarded based on students’ CGPA at the end of the programme as follows:
Class of Diploma CGPA
Distinction 4.50 – 5.00
Pass 1.50 – 4.49
Fail < 1.50
6. University of Professional Studies (UPSA) Grading System
Classification of Diploma/Degree
Diploma
The classification of a Diploma is based on the value of the Final Cumulative Grade Point
Average (FCGPA). All courses taken, except AUDITED or EXEMPTED are included in the
calculation of the FCGPA.
The full scheme of classification reads as follows:
| DIPLOMA PROGRAMMES | RANGE OF FGPA |
| Distinction | 3.5 – 4.0 |
| Credit | 3.49 |
| Pass | 1.00 – 2.49 |
| Fail | Below 1.00 |
Degree
The classification of the Bachelor’s degree is based on the value of the Final Cumulative Grade
Point Average (FCGPA). All courses taken, except AUDITED or EXEMPTED are included in
the calculation of the FCGPA.
The full scheme of classification reads as follows:
| CLASS OF DEGREE | RANGE OF FGPA |
| First Class Honours | 4.00 |
| Second Class Honours (Upper Division) | 3.00 – 3.59 |
| Second Class Honours (Lower Division) | 2.50 -2.99 |
| Third Class Honours | 2.00 – 2.49 |
| Pass | 1.00 – 1.99 |
| Fail | 1.00 |
7. Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) Grading System
GRADING
Using their professional experience and training, members of the faculty assign student grades according to practices, procedures, and standards established by the University and according to the standards set for individual courses. The University uses the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) system.
Grading Standards and Policies (CGPA)
Performance in a course is marked over 100 percent. The written examinations carry 60 percent of the marks and 40 percent is carried by continuous Assessment (CA). The grading system is as follows:
Grading Scale
| LETTER GRADE | NUMERICAL MARK (%) | INTERPRETATION | GRADE POINT (GP) |
| A | 80- 100 | Outstanding | 4.0 |
| A- | 79 – 75 | Excellent | 3.75 |
| B+ | 70 – 74 | Very Good | 3.50 |
| B | 65 – 69 | Good | 3.25 |
| B- | 60 – 64 | Fairly Good | 3.0 |
| C+ | 55 – 59 | Above Average | 2.75 |
| C | 50 – 54 | Average | 2.50 |
| C- | 45 – 44 | Below Average | 1.5 |
| D | 40 – 44 | Pass | 1.0 |
| F | 0 – 39 | Fail | 0 |
| X | Absent | 0 | |
| Z | Disqualified | – | |
| IC | Incomplete | 0 | |
| AD | Audit | 0 | |
| W | Withdrawn | – |
Classification – Diploma Programmes
Diploma Classes Range of CGPA
Distinction 3.60 – 4.00
Credit 2.50 – 3.59
Pass 1.50 – 2.49
Fail (No Award) Below 1.50
Class Designation – Degree Programmes
DEGREE CLASSES RANGE OF FGPA
First Class Honours 3.60 – 4.00
Second Class Honours (Upper Division) 3.00 – 3.59
Second Class Honours (Lower Division) 2.50 – 2.99
Third Class Honours 2.00 -2.49
Pass 1.50 – 1.99
Fail (No Award) Below 1.50
8. University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) Grading System
GRADING SYSTEM
Grading Scale
The University uses letter grades and numerical weightings corresponding to the letter grades which reflect the quality of performance. The grading scale is as follows:
| Raw Score (%) | Letter | Grade Interpretation |
| 80 – 100 | A | Excellent |
| 70 – 79 | B | Very Good |
| 50 – 69 | C | Good |
| 50 – 59 | D | Pass |
| Below 50 | F | Fail |
| I or (I*) or (I#) | Incomplete |
Student Assessment
Continuous Assessment – 30%
Class Attendance – 10%
End of Semester Examinations – 60%
Total – 100%
Calculation of Cumulative Weighted Average
Calculate the Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA) up to the end of the semester in question as follows:
CWA = Cumulative Weighted Marks
Cumulative Credits
Multiply the percentage mark scored in each course by the course credit to obtain the Weighted Marks.
Add all the Weighted Marks calculated up to the end of the semester in question to obtain the Cumulative Weighted Marks.
Add up all the corresponding Course Credits up to the end of the semester in question to obtain the Cumulative Credits
Degree Classification
The class of degrees for undergraduate programmes are determined by the following Cumulative Weighted Averages:
First Class – 80% or above
Second Class (Upper) – 70 – 79.99%
Second Class (Lower) – 60 – 69.99%
Pass – 50 – 59.99%
Fail – below 50%
The class for diploma/certi cate awards is determined by the following Cumulative Weighted Averages:
Distinction – 80% or above
Pass – 50-79.99%
9. GIMPA Grading System
Scoring and weighting
The following scoring (weighting) scheme is used in the evaluation of graduate programme performance in taught courses:
(a) Examination – 50%
(b) Continuous Assessment – 50%
GIMPA Grading System:
| Grade | Mark (%) | Grade Point (GP) | Interpretation |
| A+ | 80 – 100 | 4.00 | Distinction |
| A | 70 – 75 | 3.75 | Excellent |
| B+ | 65 – 69 | 3.50 | Very Good |
| B | 60 – 64 | 3.00 | Good |
| C | 50 – 59 | 2.00 | Pass |
| D | 40 – 49 | 1.50 | Below Average |
| F | 0 -39 | 0 | Fail |
| FA | – | – | Absent |
| Z | – | – | Disqualified |
| I | – | – | Incomplete |
| Y | – | – | Exempt |
Degree classification
The scheme of classification of graduate programmes is as follows:
Class Final Grade Point Average (FGPA)
Distinction 3.75 – 4.00
Merit 3.25 – 3.74
Pass Below 3.25
10. UHAS Grading System
The University adopts a fair and transparent grading system for all its courses. Numerical grades, awarded by Examiners, conform to the following interpretations and grade points:
Grade Interpretation and Grade Points
| Numerical Marks (%) | Grade | Grade Interpretation | Grade Point |
| 80 – 100 | A | Excellent | 4.0 |
| 75 – 79 | B+ | Very Good | 3.5 |
| 70 – 74 | B | Good | 3.0 |
| 65 – 69 | C+ | Fairly Good | 2.5 |
| 60 – 64 | C | Average | 2.0 |
| 55- 59 | D+ | Below Average | 1.5 |
| 50 – 54 | D | Pass | 1.0 |
| 45 – 49 | E | Referral | 0.5 |
| 0 – 44 | F | Fail | 0 |
| – | Z | Disqualified | 0 |
| – | X | Absent | 0 |
| – | IC | Incomplete | 0 |
| – | Y | Continuing | 0 |
Classification of Degree
The full scheme of classification reads as follows:
First Class – FGPA of 3.60 or better
Second Class (Upper) – FGPA of 3.00-3.59
Second Class (Lower) – FGPA of 2.50-2.99
Third Class – FGPA of 2.00 – 2.49
Pass – FGPA of 1.00-1.99
Fail – FGPA of below 1.00
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