Singapore Grading System: Primary, Secondary, and University Grades
Singapore's education system is renowned for its high standards and competitive nature. This comprehensive guide explains the grading systems used across different educational levels in Singapore.
Key Takeaways
- PSLE uses Achievement Levels (AL) 1-8
- O-Levels and A-Levels use letter grades
- Universities typically use a 5.0 GPA scale
- Strong emphasis on continuous assessment
- International recognition of qualifications
Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE)
| Achievement Level (AL) | Mark Range | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ≥90 | Excellent |
| 2 | 85-89 | Very Good |
| 3 | 80-84 | Good |
| 4 | 75-79 | Above Average |
| 5 | 65-74 | Average |
| 6 | 45-64 | Below Average |
| 7 | 20-44 | Poor |
| 8 | <20 | Very Poor |
GCE O-Level Grades
The Singapore-Cambridge GCE O-Level examination uses the following grading system. Calculate your grades using our Grade Calculator.
| Grade | Mark Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 75-100 | Excellent |
| A2 | 70-74 | Very Good |
| B3 | 65-69 | Good |
| B4 | 60-64 | Above Average |
| C5 | 55-59 | Average |
| C6 | 50-54 | Pass |
| D7 | 45-49 | Below Pass |
| E8 | 40-44 | Poor |
| F9 | 0-39 | Fail |
GCE A-Level Grades
| Grade | Description | Points |
|---|---|---|
| A | Excellent | 10 |
| B | Very Good | 8.5 |
| C | Good | 7 |
| D | Satisfactory | 5 |
| E | Pass | 2.5 |
| S | Subfail | 0 |
| U | Ungraded | 0 |
University Grading System
Singapore universities typically use a 5.0 GPA scale. Convert your grades using our International GPA Calculator.
| Grade | Grade Point | Mark Range |
|---|---|---|
| A+ | 5.0 | ≥85 |
| A | 5.0 | 80-84 |
| A- | 4.5 | 75-79 |
| B+ | 4.0 | 70-74 |
| B | 3.5 | 65-69 |
| B- | 3.0 | 60-64 |
| C+ | 2.5 | 55-59 |
| C | 2.0 | 50-54 |
| F | 0.0 | <50 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good PSLE score?
PSLE scores with Achievement Levels 1-3 are considered excellent, allowing students to enter top secondary schools.
What O-Level grades are needed for Junior College?
Most Junior Colleges require an L1R5 score (English + 5 relevant subjects) of 20 points or better, with top JCs requiring scores of 7-10 points.
How is university CAP calculated?
Cumulative Average Point (CAP) is calculated by dividing the sum of grade points earned by the total number of module credits attempted.
How do Singapore grades convert internationally?
Singapore's A-Level grades are widely recognized internationally. For university grades, a CAP of 4.5-5.0 typically converts to a First Class Honours equivalent. Use our International GPA Calculator for precise conversions.