Netherlands Grading System: Dutch Education Scales and Qualifications
The Dutch education system uses a unique 1-10 grading scale across all levels of education, from primary school through university. This comprehensive guide explains the Netherlands grading system and its various qualification tracks.
Key Takeaways
- Dutch grading uses a 1-10 scale (10 being highest)
- 5.5 or higher is considered a passing grade
- Three main secondary education tracks: VMBO, HAVO, and VWO
- Universities use the same 1-10 scale
- International recognition of Dutch qualifications
Dutch Numerical Grading Scale (1-10)
| Dutch Grade | Description | US Equivalent | GPA |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Outstanding | A+ | 4.0 |
| 9 | Excellent | A | 4.0 |
| 8 | Very Good | B+ | 3.7 |
| 7 | Good | B | 3.3 |
| 6 | Satisfactory | C | 2.7 |
| 5 | Almost Satisfactory | D+ | 1.7 |
| 4 | Insufficient | D | 1.0 |
| 3 | Poor | F | 0.0 |
| 2 | Very Poor | F | 0.0 |
| 1 | Very Poor | F | 0.0 |
Secondary Education Tracks
VMBO (4 years)
Preparatory Secondary Vocational Education (VMBO) prepares students for vocational training. Students can calculate their grades using our Grade Calculator.
VMBO Levels
- Basic Vocational Programme (BBL)
- Advanced Vocational Programme (KBL)
- Combined Programme (GL)
- Theoretical Programme (TL)
HAVO (5 years)
Senior General Secondary Education (HAVO) prepares students for universities of applied sciences (HBO).
VWO (6 years)
Pre-university Education (VWO) prepares students for research universities. Convert your VWO grades using our International GPA Calculator.
Higher Education Grading
Dutch universities use the same 1-10 scale, with some unique characteristics:
- Grades 9 and 10 are rarely awarded
- 5.5 is the minimum passing grade
- Grades can include decimals (e.g., 7.5)
- Some universities use rounded grades only
International Grade Equivalents
Convert Dutch grades to other systems using our Percentage to GPA Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a passing grade in the Netherlands?
A grade of 5.5 or higher is considered passing. Some institutions round grades to whole numbers, where 6 becomes the passing grade.
How common are high grades (9-10)?
Grades 9 and 10 are rarely awarded in Dutch education. A grade of 8 is considered excellent achievement.
What are the main higher education tracks?
The Netherlands has two main types of higher education: research universities (WO) and universities of applied sciences (HBO).
How do Dutch grades convert to GPA?
Dutch grades typically convert as follows: 8-10 ≈ 4.0 GPA, 7-7.9 ≈ 3.3-3.7 GPA, 6-6.9 ≈ 2.7-3.0 GPA. For precise conversions, use our International GPA Calculator.