Australian Grading System: University and Secondary Education Standards
The Australian education system uses a distinctive grading scale that differs from many international standards. This guide explains the Australian grading system across various educational levels, with a focus on university grades and their international equivalents.
Key Takeaways
Australian universities use HD (High Distinction) to F (Fail) grading scale
Passing grades start at 50% (P - Pass)
Each state may have slight variations in secondary education grading
ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) determines university admission
International grade conversions are standardized across Australian institutions
University Grading Scale
Grade
Mark Range
Grade Point
Description
HD
85-100%
7.0
High Distinction
D
75-84%
6.0
Distinction
CR
65-74%
5.0
Credit
P
50-64%
4.0
Pass
F
0-49%
0.0
Fail
Secondary Education Grading
Year 7-10 Grading Scale
Grade
Description
Achievement Level
A
Outstanding Achievement
90-100%
B
High Achievement
75-89%
C
Sound Achievement
60-74%
D
Limited Achievement
50-59%
E
Very Limited Achievement
0-49%
ATAR System
The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is a number between 0.00 and 99.95 that indicates a student's position relative to all the students in their age group. For example:
ATAR 90.00 means you performed better than 90% of your peers
Most competitive university programs require ATAR scores above 90
ATAR calculation varies by state but considers final year subjects
Some universities have additional entry requirements beyond ATAR