UK Degree Classification

• Used to summarize final UK undergraduate honours degree outcomes.
• Often used in graduate study, employment, and academic progression contexts.
• Can be based on weighted module marks and university-specific classification rules.

• First-class honours is generally the highest common honours classification.
• Upper Second, often written as 2:1, is a widely recognized strong outcome.
• Lower Second and Third classifications can still represent degree completion under local rules.

• Do not convert a UK classification to a US GPA as if there is one official table.
• Some institutions publish percentage bands, but classification algorithms, rounding, and weighting vary.
• For admissions or employment, follow the receiving organization's stated equivalency policy.

• This page is a broad system explainer, not a university-specific degree algorithm.
• Integrated master's, foundation degrees, postgraduate degrees, and professional programs may use different labels.
• Transcript marks and final classification can tell different parts of the academic record.

GradeTally is an independent planning tool. This page explains common grading-system context only. It does not replace your school, university, credential evaluator, admissions office, or official transcript policy.

Is a UK First the same as a 4.0 GPA?

No. A First is a UK degree classification, while 4.0 GPA is a grade-point average. Any equivalency depends on the receiver's policy.

What does 2:1 mean?

2:1 is shorthand for Upper Second Class honours, a common UK degree classification.

Are UK classifications used for every course grade?

No. The classification usually describes the overall degree outcome, while individual modules have their own marks.