Jump to content

Academic grading in Singapore: Difference between revisions

Add links
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
Tags: Mobile edit Mobile web edit
 
(83 intermediate revisions by 47 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|Overview of academic grading in Singapore}}
{{short description|Overview of academic grading in Singapore}}
{{grading}}
{{grading}}
[[Singapore]]'s grading system in schools is differentiated by the existence of many types of institutions with different education foci and systems. The grading systems that are used at Primary, Secondary, and Junior College levels are the most fundamental to the local education system.
[[Singapore]]'s grading system in schools is differentiated by the existence of many types of institutions with different education foci and systems. The grading systems that are used at Primary, Secondary, and Junior College levels are the most fundamental to the local education system,


==Primary schools==
==Primary schools==
Primary schools in Singapore implement a grading system along with an "Achievement Band" until the system disregarded the EM3 stream and concentrated on an "Overall Grade" scheme, which grades students as below. From 2021 onwards, the Primary 6 Cohorts will also be using the Achievement Level system (AL) which will be used for the [[PSLE]]:
Primary schools in Singapore implement a grading system along with an "Achievement Band" until the system disregarded the EM3 stream and concentrated on an "Overall Grade" scheme, which grades students as shown below. Students are then offered the subjects into either standard and foundational stream upon reaching Primary 5 depending on the performance, and which papers will be taken during the [[Primary School Leaving Examination]].


=== Current scheme ===
* AL1 :90 to 100
Since 2021, the ''Achievement Level system'' (AL) was adopted, which eliminates the scoring system to benefit the chances for placements in the Secondary Schools:<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://clementipri.moe.edu.sg/about-us/school-information/descriptors-for-achievement-bands-and-grades-p1-p4|title=Descriptors for Achievement Bands and Grades (P1-P4)|website=clementipri.moe.edu.sg|access-date=2019-08-06}}</ref>
* AL2 :85 to 89
* AL3: 80 to 84
* AL4: 75 to 79
* AL5: 65 to 74
* AL6: 45 to 64
* AL7: 20 to 44
* AL8: <20


{| class="wikitable"
<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://clementipri.moe.edu.sg/about-us/school-information/descriptors-for-achievement-bands-and-grades-p1-p4|title=Descriptors for Achievement Bands and Grades (P1-P4)|website=clementipri.moe.edu.sg|access-date=2019-08-06}}</ref>
|+ Achievement Level Band scoring (Standard)
|-
! Achievement Level Band !! Raw Marks !! [[Primary School Leaving Examination|PSLE]] Point
|-
| AL1 || 90-100 || 1
|-
| AL2 || 85-89 || 2
|-
| AL3 || 80-84 || 3
|-
| AL4 || 75-79 || 4
|-
| AL5 || 65-74 || 5
|-
| AL6 || 45-64 || 6
|-
| AL7 || 20-44 || 7
|-
| AL8 || 0-19 || 8
|}


{| class="wikitable"
===Primary 5 to 6 (Foundation)===
|+ Achievement Level Band scoring (Foundational)
* A*: 91-100
|-
* A: 75-90
! Achievement Level Band !! Raw Marks !! PSLE Point
* B: 60-74
|-
* C: 50-59
| ALA || 75-100 || 6
* D: 40-49
|-
* E: 21-39
* U: Up to 20
| ALB || 30-74 || 7
|-
| ALC || 0-29 || 8
|}

Postings for the Secondary Schools are determined by the sum of all four subjects of English, Mathematics, Science and Mother Tongue, with a possible score between 4 and 32, with a minimum passing score of 30 (see below). Attaining a merit for Higher Chinese Language (Distinction/Merit/Pass) with a PSLE score of no more than 14 will be given priority; however, no scores are displayed and no scoring system is specified as such. The eventual scores would determine the placements for the Posting level through the Full Subject-Based Banding (Academic Streaming prior to 2023):

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Allocation to Levels
|-
! Posting Level/Stream !! PSLE Score !! Remarks
|-
| G1/Normal (Technical) || 25-30 || AL7 or better in English and Mathematics required.
|-
| G2/Normal (Academic) || 21-25 ||
|-
| G3/Express || 4-22 || Eligible for Higher Mother Tongue (HMTL) if student's PSLE score is 8 or less; if student had a merit grade in HCL, the minimum score is relaxed to 14.
|}

=== Former scheme ===
Between 2008 and 2021, students' scores are determined through the aggregate [[Standard score|T-score]] system, in which students are graded relative to their peers.<ref>{{cite web |title=Updates to PSLE scoring: Foundation level grades unveiled, P5 2020 cohort to get report cards with new grade bands |url=https://sg.news.yahoo.com/new-psle-grading-system-to-take-effect-from-2021-foundation-level-subjects-to-be-assessed-under-3-bands-090000768.html |website=Yahoo News |access-date=10 January 2024 |language=en-SG |date=25 July 2019}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Achievement Level Band scoring (Standard)
|-
! Academic Grade !! Raw Marks
|-
| A* || 91-100
|-
| A || 75-90
|-
| B || 60-74
|-
| C || 50-59
|-
| D || 35-49
|-
| E || 20-34
|-
| Ungraded/F || 0-19
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Achievement Level Band scoring (Foundational)
|-
! Academic Grade !! Raw Marks
|-
| A || 85-100
|-
| B || 70-84
|-
| C || 50-69
|-
| D || 30-49
|-
| Ungraded/F || 0-29
|}


==Secondary schools==
==Secondary schools==
Secondary schools are the first institutions in Singapore to have implemented the “Overall Grade” grading system for academic subjects. Since the 2000s, the education system allows more capable Normal (Academic) stream students to participate in the O Levels examination for Mother Tongue and Mathematics (Elementary) a year instead of taking the N Levels equivalents. This has resulted with a quasi-O Levels grading system used for such students, although their N Levels subjects are graded along the Overall Grade grading system, thus in their result slip, some subjects will be graded along the Overall Grade, and some with the O Levels grading system.
Secondary schools are the first institutions in Singapore to have implemented the "Overall Grade" grading system for academic subjects. Prior to 2023, the education system allows more students from the Normal (Academic) stream to partake the [[Singapore-Cambridge GCE Ordinary Level|GCE Ordinary (O) Level]] examinations for Mother Tongue and Mathematics for a year exempting them at [[Singapore-Cambridge GCE Normal Level|Normal (N) Level]], resulting with quasi-Ordinary Level grading systems although Subjects for Normal-Levels are computed along with it in their result slips. The Mother Tongue Syllabus B does not use the grading system, but instead graded as either a Merit, a Pass, or an Ungraded grade.


Students are graded via the Overall Grade systems during their first three years in Secondary School, with a fourth year being different across different academic streams. Express or Special students are graded via the results from the O Levels in their fourth and final year, while Normal (Academic) use both the N and O Level results for their fourth and fifth years respectively; Normal (Technical) students would use either the N Level results or the Overall Grade format, depending on the school's method of learning.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.seab.gov.sg/aLevel/generalInfo.html |title=Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board |access-date=2011-10-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111103160716/http://www.seab.gov.sg/aLevel/generalInfo.html |archive-date=2011-11-03 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
Express and Special stream students are graded along the Overall Grade grading system for the first 3 academic years in their secondary schools, and then graded along the O Levels grading system in their final secondary school year (year 4). Normal (Academic) students are graded for first 3 academic years and the N Levels year (year 4), and subsequently graded along the O Levels grading system in their final secondary school year (year 5). Normal (Technical) stream students are graded along the Overall Grade grading system throughout their entire education in secondary schools.


{|class="wikitable"
Non-academic subjects like Character and Citizenship Education and Music are graded with an alphabetical grading system of A, B, C or D.
|+ Grading for Ordinary Level
|-
! Grade
! Percentage
! Remarks
|-
| A1
| 75-100
| Distinction may be given for top scoring students.
|-
| A2
| 70-74
|
|-
| B3
| 65-69
|
|-
| B4
| 60-64
|
|-
| C5
| 55-59
|
|-
| C6
| 50-54
| Minimum passing grade in consideration.
|-
| D7
| 45-49
|
|-
| E8
| 40-44
|
|-
| F9
| 0-39
|
|}


{|class="wikitable"
Overall grade
|+ Grading for Normal Level
* A1: 75% - 100%
|-
* A2: 70% - 74%
! Grade
* B3: 65% - 69%
! Percentage
* B4: 60% - 64%
! Remarks
* C5: 55% - 59%
|-
* C6: 50% - 54%
| A
* D7: 45% - 49%
| 70-100
* E8: 40% - 44%
|
* F9: 0% - 39%
|-
| B
| 65-69
|
|-
| C
| 60-64
|
|-
| D
| 50-54
| Minimum passing grade in consideration.
|-
| Ungraded
| 0-49
| Results may not be displayed at [[Certificate of Secondary Education|result slips]].
|}


===GPA and MSG===
===GPA and MSG===
In some Secondary Schools, the Grade Point Average (GPA) grading system is used. The GPA is usually calculated by taking the Grade Point of each subject, adding them together, then dividing the total by that number of subjects. The actual subjects counted towards the GPA computation differs between schools. For example, Victoria School gives its students the option to exclude applicable subjects from the GPA computation depending on the subject combination of the student. This GPA value is rounded to two decimal places, giving the student's GPA. Usually students with a requirement of both a pass in English Language and Mathematics with a minimum GPA of 3.0 are required to advance to the next year.

In some Secondary Schools, the Grade Point Average (GPA) grading system is used. The GPA is usually calculated by taking the Grade Point of each subject, adding them together, then dividing the total by that number of subjects. The actual subjects counted towards the GPA computation differs between schools. For example, Victoria School gives its students the option to exclude applicable subjects from the GPA computation depending on the subject combination of the student. This GPA value is rounded to two decimal places, giving the student's GPA. A minimum GPA of 2.0 and a pass in English Language will usually be required for promotion.


For example, the GPA table for [[Raffles Girls' School]] and [[Raffles Institution (Secondary)]] is as follows:
For example, the GPA table for [[Raffles Girls' School]] and [[Raffles Institution (Secondary)]] is as follows:
Line 89: Line 217:
|-
|-
| F
| F
| <40
| 0-40
| 0.8
| 0.8
|}
|}
Line 138: Line 266:
| rowspan="2" | 0.0
| rowspan="2" | 0.0
|-
|-
| Ungraded
|U
|<20
| 0-20
|}
|}


However, the GPA table may differ from schools to schools and tracks; in the case of other schools such as [[Hwa Chong Institution]], [[St. Joseph's Institution]], [[School of Science and Technology, Singapore|School of Science and Technology]], and [[Victoria School]] (Express), a similar grading system called the Mean Subject Grade (MSG) is used. The MSG table works similarly to the regular grading scheme (see above), with the number prefix being the determinant for the points; like in GPA, the points are calculated by average to the number of subjects taken, rounded to two decimal points.
However, the GPA table may differ from schools to schools and tracks.

However, in other secondary schools like [[Hwa Chong Institution]], [[St. Joseph's Institution]], [[School of Science and Technology, Singapore|School of Science and Technology]], and [[Victoria School]] (Express), a similar grading system called the Mean Subject Grade (MSG) is used. The MSG table is as follows:


==Junior college level (GCE A and AO levels)==
{|class="wikitable"
{|class="wikitable"
|+ Grading for Junior College
|-
|-
! Grade
! Grade
! Percentage
! Percentage
! H2 Rank Point
! Grade point
! H1 Rank Point
! Remarks
|-
|-
| A1
| A
| 75-100
| 70-100
| 1
| 20
| 10
| Distinction may be given for top scoring students.
|-
|-
| A2
| B
| 70-74
| 60-69
| 2
| 17.5
| 8.75
|
|-
|-
| B3
| C
| 65-69
| 3
|-
| B4
| 60-64
| 4
|-
| C5
| 55-59
| 55-59
| 5
| 15
| 7.5
|
|-
|-
| C6
| D
| 50-54
| 50-54
| 6
| 12.5
| 6.25
|
|-
|-
| D7
| E
| 45-49
| 45-49
| 7
| 10
| 5
| Minimum passing grade at consideration.
|-
|-
| E8
| O/S
| 40-44
| 35-44
| 8
| 5
| 2.5
| Conditional Pass (denotes standard is at AO level only)
|-
|-
| F9
| U
| <40
| 0-34
|colspan=2| 0
| 9
| May not be reflected in the Advanced-Level result certificate.
|}
|}


Like in Secondary Schools, Junior College also have grading systems where grading systems are awarded for H1 or H2 subjects. H3 (previously Special papers before 2006) are instead awarded as either Distinction, Merit, Pass (H3 only) or Ungraded; as with Higher Mother Tongue subjects, these subjects does not influence the student's final score. In addition, some schools are also offering the [[International Baccalaureate]] diploma program.
The MSG is calculated by adding the points together and dividing the sum by the number of subjects. For example, if a student scored an A1 for math, B4 for English, and C6 for Chemistry, his MSG would be <math>\textstyle\frac{1+4+6}{3}</math> = <math>\textstyle\frac{11}{3}</math>.


To prevent [[grade inflation]], percentage of the scores may be adjusted according to the cohort's performance, and as such the percentages are only approximate. Depending on Junior College's requirements, a D grade may be the minimum passing grade instead of an E grade, or Conditional Pass may be awarded, or both.
This will be rounded to two decimal places, giving a final MSG of 3.67


The grades obtained for each A-level exam subjects will influence the student's rank point. A higher score provides a better chance at admission to university, for a maximum score of 90, based on the best scores from three H2 subjects and three H1 subjects (General Paper, coursework, and one best subject of their choice). Different local universities have different requirements as indicated on their Indicative Grade Profile.<ref>{{Cite web |last=First |first=Concept |date=2022-02-11 |title=University Admission Grade Requirements: NUS, NTU, SMU |url=https://conceptfirst.com.sg/university-admission-grade-requirements-nus-ntu-smu/ |access-date= |website=Concept First Physics Tuition Learning Centre |language=en-US}}</ref>
===N(A)/G2 levels grades===
* 1: 75% and above
* 2: 70% to 74%
* 3: 65% to 69%
* 4: 60% to 64%
* 5: 50% to 59%
* 6: Below 50%, considered Ungraded, or failed.


== Institute of Technical Education and Polytechnics (NITEC and diplomas) ==
===N(T)/G1 levels grades===
Technical schools also adopt Grade Point Average system, as scores are computed through the grades obtained from a set of modules multiplied by the number of [[Course credit|credits]] given for the module (excluding modules which do not include in the GPA, industry attachments and on-the-job training, or exempted modules). The total is then divided by the cumulative number of credits for all modules taken. The grading are the same between ITE and polytechnics, but with different grading bands, which are as follows:
* A: 75% and above
* B: 70% to 74%
* C: 60% to 69%
* D: 50% to 59%
* U: Below 50%, considered failed


{| class="wikitable"
===O levels grades===
|+ Grading for ITE/Polytechnics
* A1: 75% and above
|-
* A2: 70% to 74%
! colspan=3| Polytechnics !! colspan=3 | Institute of Technical Education !! rowspan=2|Remarks
* B3: 65% to 69%
|-
* B4: 60% to 64%
! Score !! Grade !! Grade Point !! Score !! Grade !! Grade Point
* C5: 55% to 59%
|-
* C6: 50% to 54%
| 80-100 || A || 4.0 || 80-100 || A || 4.0 || May be awarded Distinction (AD/Z) for top 5% of cohort.
* D7: 45% to 49%
|-
* E8: 40% to 44%
| 75-79 || B+ || 3.5 || rowspan=2| 70-79 || rowspan=2| B || rowspan=2| 3.0 ||
* F9: Below 40%
|-
* Grades D7, E8 and F9 are considered the ''failing'' grades. Students taking Mother Tongue Syllabus B may be awarded a Merit, a Pass, or an Ungraded grade.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.seab.gov.sg/aLevel/generalInfo.html |title=Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board |access-date=2011-10-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111103160716/http://www.seab.gov.sg/aLevel/generalInfo.html |archive-date=2011-11-03 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| 70-74 || B || 3.0 ||
|-
| 65-69 || C+ || 2.5 || rowspan=2| 60-69 || rowspan=2| C || rowspan=2| 2.0 ||
|-
| 60-64 || C || 2.0 ||
|-
| 55-59 || D+ || 1.5 || rowspan=2| 50-59 || rowspan=2| D || rowspan=2| 1.0 ||
|-
| 50-54 || D || 1.0 || Minimum passing grade in consideration.
|-
| 0-49 || F || 0.0 || 0-49 || F || 0.0 ||
|-
|}


And as with universities, the following conditions apply for most modules:
==Junior college level (GCE A and AO levels)==
* Modules with a grading system of either a Pass or Fail only award credits and does not impact the GPA.
* A: 70% or Above
* Students failing to fulfill the percentage rate for the attendance requirements (based on the total number of hours in attendance and approved [[leave of absence]]), depending on the school's requirement, may be allowed to sit for the semestral exams, though only a non-graded pass (0.5) or a cap of D grade (1.0) would be factored if they passed.
* B: 60% to 69%
* Students who was absent for the semestral exams without a valid reason, or are caught with [[Academic dishonesty|dishonesty]], are considered to have failed the module. Students who failed the module must retake it and depending on the school's scoring system, either having a prior score overwritten or had both attempts computed. Modules which have passed, electives after exceeding the maximum number of attempts, or modules from the Polytechnic Foundation Programme, are not applicable for retaking.
* C: 55% to 59%
* Students are given an academic standing; students may be placed on [[academic probation]] (where most features from the school were revoked) if they have a low cumulative GPA (usually 1.0, 0.8 in NYP, or 1.4 in SP), or was [[Expulsion (education)|dismissed]] from the course of study if they fail to improve their GPA for consecutive semesters, if they have passed the maximum allowable time for graduation (double the number of years for their years of study), or failing a module for multiple times, whichever fulfill first.
* D: 50% to 54%
* E: 45% to 49% (passing grade)
* S: 40% to 44% (denotes standard is at AO level only), grade N in the British A Levels.
* U: 39% to 0% (no points are given)


Students with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 (NITEC) or 2.0 (Higher NITEC; 2.5 from 2027), including up to 0.2 bonus points for [[Co-curricular activity (Singapore)|Co-curricular activity]] (CCA) and/or 0.1 point for passing Bridging Mathematics, was also taken into consideration for matriculation in polytechnics, though this applies to most diplomas; Higher NITEC students who have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 may exempt them their first year of studies providing if criteria have been met.<ref>{{cite web |title=JPAE - Joint Polytechnic Admissions Exercise |url=https://jpae.polytechnic.edu.sg/App?tabs=0 |website=jpae.polytechnic.edu.sg |access-date=10 January 2024}}</ref>
In addition, students offering Special Papers (offered for the last time in 2006) will be awarded either 1 (Distinction), 2 (Merit), or U (Unclassified). Grades 1 and 2 may only be awarded with a grade E and above in the main A level paper. Grade U will be awarded if a candidate fails to achieve at least a grade E in the main subject paper, and will not be reflected in the A level result certificate.


Like in Junior Colleges, the student's GPA from the Polytechnics would determine the admission for universities, including international ones, although this is not guaranteed even though if the student's GPA is high and has graduated with a diploma with merit.
For students offering H3 Subjects (introduced for the first time in 2006), they will be awarded either Distinction, Merit, Pass or Ungraded. However, this would not affect the final score of the candidate.

Different JCs have different expectations and thus, the school reserves the discretion to moderate the marks when deemed necessary. For example, some JCs may regard 50% as the passing mark instead of 45% by others.

Note: AO level grades at Junior College level follows the O level system above.

All percentages with their corresponding grades shown here are just approximate guidelines because ultimately at the end of all major examinations (Primary School Leaving Examinations or PSLE in short, GCE N, O and A Levels) the Ministry of Education, Singapore, will moderate the results. Hence, an A grade for instance may no longer be at 70%. It could possibly be 68% or even 73% depending on the performance of the cohort. This is usually done to prevent [[grade inflation]].

In addition, some schools are also offering the [[International Baccalaureate]] diploma program.

==Polytechnic (diploma)==

Note: Some polytechnics do not have grades such as AD with A being the highest grade such as Republic Polytechnic during 2007 to 2010.

'''Grading'''
*AD/Z: Distinction (Top 5% score in the subject for the cohort)
*A: Excellent (>=80%)
*B+: Very good (75%-79%)
*B: Good (70%-74%)
*C+: Above average (65%-69%)
*C: Average (60%-64%)
*D+: Pass (55%-59%)
*D: Borderline pass (50%-54%)
*F: Fail (<50%)

'''Grade point average'''
*AD/Z: 4.0
*A: 4.0
*B+: 3.5
*B: 3.0
*C+: 2.5
*C: 2.0
*D+: 1.5
*D: 1.0
*F: 0.0

For entrance into local public funded university, refer to the Indicative Grade Profile for each University. Generally, a good GPA is considered 3.5 and above and that does not guarantee that you will get the course that you want as certain popular courses requires extremely high GPA even as it may be considerable easier to study. Currently, only 8 percent of polytechnic students enter established local university like NUS, NTU and SMU. To cater for the increasing aspirations of polytechnic graduates, new Universities such as the [[Singapore Institute of Technology]] (SIT) have been established.

[[Co-curricular activity (Singapore)|Co-curricular activity]] (CCA) was also taken into consideration for matriculation. However, from 2007 onwards, local universities have since scrapped the 5% CCA criteria. This means that polytechnic results would comprise 80% while the remaining 20% is made up of O Levels grade. Some secondary schools also use the [[Grade Point Average]] of the polytechnic Diploma [[system]].


== University (degree) ==
== University (degree) ==
Universities in Singapore adopt the [[Grade Point Average|Grade Point Average (GPA)]] system.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://digitalsenior.sg/gpa-system/|title=Do you Know about the Different GPA Systems in Singapore? -|last=Senior|first=Digital|date=2013-12-21|website=Digital Senior|language=en-US|access-date=2019-09-28}}</ref> Each module are individually graded and the cumulative grade point is averaged out at the end of the course which a student takes. However, different universities have different computation schemes. [[National University of Singapore|National University of Singapore (NUS)]], [[Nanyang Technological University|Nanyang Technological University (NTU)]] and [[Singapore University of Technology and Design|Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sutd.edu.sg/SUTD/media/SUTD/Inbound-Exchange-Students-to-SUTD-Information-Sheet-(Fall-Spring-Term).pdf|title=Inbound Exchange Students to SUTD Information Sheet (Fall-Spring Term)}}</ref> adopt schemes that compute up to 5.0 grade point. However, [[Singapore Management University|Singapore Management University (SMU)]] adopts a 4-point computation scheme.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=https://ughandbook.portals.mbs.ac.uk/Portals/0/Docs/exchange/singapore-management/SMUAcademicGuide.pdf|title=SMU Academic Guide}}</ref>
Like some Secondary schools, Institute of Technical Education and Polytechnics, universities also adopt the Grade Point Average (GPA) system.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://digitalsenior.sg/gpa-system/|title=Do you Know about the Different GPA Systems in Singapore? -|last=Senior|first=Digital|date=2013-12-21|website=Digital Senior|language=en-US|access-date=2019-09-28}}</ref> However, unlike the Polytechnics, different universities have different computation for their scoring schemes; most universities use a 5.0 point scale while some universities, such as Singapore Management University uses 4.0 point scale, as stated otherwise.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=https://ughandbook.portals.mbs.ac.uk/Portals/0/Docs/exchange/singapore-management/SMUAcademicGuide.pdf|title=SMU Academic Guide}}</ref> Upon graduation, students will receive degree classification according to their CGPA/CAP.


=== Grading Systems ===
The maximum average grade point for the 4-point computation is 4.0 while the maximum for the 5-point computation is 5.0.


==== NUS/NTU/SIT/SUSS/SUTD ====
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center"
|+Grade profiles across universities<ref name=":0" />
! rowspan="2" |Grade
! rowspan="2" |Grade
! colspan="2" |5-point
! rowspan="2" |Score
equivalent
! colspan="2" |4-point (SMU)<ref name=":1" />
! colspan="2" |Universities/Point
|-
|-
!NUS & NTU
!NUS/NTU/SIT/SUSS
!SUTD
!SUTD
!Grade
!Mark Range
|-
|-
|A+
|A+
|75-100
| rowspan="2" |5.0
|
|5.0
|5.3
|-
|A
|70-74
| colspan="2" |5.0
|-
|A-
|65-69
| colspan="2" |4.5
|-
|B+
|60-64
| colspan="2" |4.0
|-
|B
|55-59
| colspan="2" |3.5
|-
|B-
|50-54
| colspan="2" |3.0
|-
|C+
|45-49
| colspan="2" |2.5
|-
|C
|40-44
| colspan="2" |2.0
|-
|D+
|35-39
| colspan="2" |1.5
|-
|D
|30-34
| colspan="2" |1.0
|-
|F
|0-29
| colspan="2" |0.0
|}

==== SMU ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center"
! rowspan="2" |Grade
! rowspan="2" |Score
equivalent
!Universities/Point
|-
!SMU
|-
|A+
|86-100
|4.3
|4.3
|86 and above
|-
|-
|A
|A
|83-85
|5.0
|4.0
|4.0
|83 to 85
|-
|-
|A-
|A-
|80-82
|4.5
|
|3.7
|3.7
|80 to 82
|-
|-
|B+
|B+
|77-79
|4.0
|
|3.3
|3.3
|77 to 79
|-
|-
|B
|B
|74-77
|3.5
|4.0
|3.0
|3.0
|74 to 76
|-
|-
|B-
|B-
|70-73
|3.0
|
|2.7
|2.7
|70 to 73
|-
|-
|C+
|C+
|66-69
|2.5
|
|2.3
|2.4
|66 to 69
|-
|-
|C
|C
|63-65
|2.0
|2.0
|3.0
|2.0
|63 to 65
|-
|-
|C-
|C-
|60-62
|
|
|1.7
|1.7
|60 to 62
|-
|-
|D+
|D+
|53-59
|1.5
|
|1.3
|1.3
|53 to 59
|-
|-
|D
|D
|50-52
|1.0
|1.0
|2.0
|1
|50 to 52
|-
|-
|F
|F
|0
|0-49
|0
|0.0
|0
|49 and below
|}
|}

<br />
=== Degree Classifications ===

==== NUS/NTU/SIT/SUSS/SUTD ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center"
! rowspan="3" |CAP/CGPA
! colspan="4" |Classification
! rowspan="3" |Remarks
|-
! colspan="2" |Honours Degrees
! colspan="2" |Basic Degrees
|-
!NUS/NTU/SUTD/SIT/SIT (DigiPen)*
!NUS**/NTU**/SUSS
!NUS
!NUS***/SUSS
|-
|4.50 - 5.00
|Honours (Highest Distinction)
|First Class Honours
| rowspan="5" |Pass
with Merit
| rowspan="4" |Pass
with Merit
|At least A- in Honours thesis/project.
|-
|4.00 - 4.49
|Honours (Distinction)
|Second Class (Upper)
|
|-
|3.50 - 3.99
|Honours (Merit)
|Second Class (Lower)
|
|-
|3.20 - 3.49
| rowspan="2" |Honours
| rowspan="2" |Third Class
|
|-
|3.00 - 3.19
| rowspan="2" |Pass
|
|-
|2.00 - 2.99
|Pass
|Pass
|Pass
|
|-
|0.00 - 1.99
|
|
|
|
|Students will not graduate.
|}
<ref>{{Cite web |title=Singapore University of Technology and Design: Undergraduate - degree courses in Singapore |url=https://sutd.edu.sg/Admissions/Undergraduate/FAQs |access-date=2024-03-29 |website=SUTD}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Assessment & Grading System: Full-time Undergraduate Degree {{!}} SUSS |url=https://www.suss.edu.sg/full-time-undergraduate/curriculum/assessment |access-date=2024-03-29 |website=www.suss.edu.sg}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=TRANSCRIPT INFORMATION – GRADE LEGEND |url=https://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/docs/info/administrative-policies-procedures/transcript-information-grade-legend.pdf |access-date=2024-03-29 |website=www.nus.edu.sg}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Nanyang Bulletin 2010/11 Undergraduate |url=https://www3.ntu.edu.sg/oas2/nanyangbulletin/NB1011/html/US_asgs.html |access-date=2024-03-29 |website=www3.ntu.edu.sg}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Graduation Requirements {{!}} DigiPen (Singapore) |url=https://www.digipen.edu.sg/student-portal/student-services/registration/graduation-requirements |access-date=2024-03-29 |website=www.digipen.edu.sg |language=en}}</ref>

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Student admitted prior to AY2012/2013

<nowiki>**</nowiki>Student admitted from AY2020 cohort onward

<nowiki>***</nowiki>Prior 2012

==== SMU ====
{| class="wikitable"
!CGPA
!Classification
|-
|3.80 - 4.0
|Summa Cum Laude (With Highest Distinction)
|-
|3.60 - 3.79
|Magna Cum Laude (With High Distinction)
|-
|3.40 - 3.59
|Cum Laude (With Distinction)
|-
|3.20 - 3.39
|High Merit
|-
|3.00 - 3.19
|Merit
|}
'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Frequently Asked Questions For Employers {{!}} Dato' Kho Hui Meng Career Centre |url=https://careerservices.smu.edu.sg/employers/frequently-asked-questions-employers |access-date=2024-03-29 |website=careerservices.smu.edu.sg}}</ref>'''

==== Others ====
Like polytechnics, universities also have an academic standing and a minimum GPA for graduation (usually 2.0), and with [[Latin honors|honor]] certification for reaching certain minimum thresholds for the following degrees:
* For NAFA's master'a degree, the merit threshold is 4.5, while the minimum passing grade is 2.5.
* For NAFA's graduate diploma, the merit threshold is 4.0.
* For NUS' Doctor of Philosophy, master's degrees and Graduate diploma, the minimum passing grades are 3.5, 3.0 and 2.5, respectively; there are no merit certifications.

=== Academic Termination ===
Non-SUTD undergraduate students whose cumulative GPA fell below the passing threshold at the end of the current semester may be probated or dismissed altogether depending on the university's policy:
* In NTU, if the cumulative GPA fell below 2.0 for three consecutive semesters.
* In NUS, for undergraduates, if the CAP fell below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters; for master's degree, if the CAP is between 2.5 and 3.0 for three consecutive semesters, or below 2.5 for two consecutive semesters; for PhD degree, if the CAP is between 3.0 and 3.5 for three consecutive semesters, or below 3.0 for two consecutive semesters. There is no academic probation for graduate diploma.
* In SIT, if the cumulative GPA fell below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters, or had one module failed three times; however, the student will be in probation if the GPA fell below 1.75 during their first semester.
* In SMU, if the cumulative GPA fell below 2.0 or 2.5 for two consecutive semesters, depending on the course of study.
* In SUSS, if the cumulative GPA fell below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters. For Law students, students will face academic termination if their cumulative GPA fell below 3.0 for two semesters.
* If the GPA fell below the threshold at the end of the final semester of study, even though it is the first time this occurs, and if the student has passed all the modules.


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 14:34, 27 November 2024

Academic grading
Africa
North America
South America
Asia
Europe
Oceania

Singapore's grading system in schools is differentiated by the existence of many types of institutions with different education foci and systems. The grading systems that are used at Primary, Secondary, and Junior College levels are the most fundamental to the local education system,

Primary schools

[edit]

Primary schools in Singapore implement a grading system along with an "Achievement Band" until the system disregarded the EM3 stream and concentrated on an "Overall Grade" scheme, which grades students as shown below. Students are then offered the subjects into either standard and foundational stream upon reaching Primary 5 depending on the performance, and which papers will be taken during the Primary School Leaving Examination.

Current scheme

[edit]

Since 2021, the Achievement Level system (AL) was adopted, which eliminates the scoring system to benefit the chances for placements in the Secondary Schools:[1]

Achievement Level Band scoring (Standard)
Achievement Level Band Raw Marks PSLE Point
AL1 90-100 1
AL2 85-89 2
AL3 80-84 3
AL4 75-79 4
AL5 65-74 5
AL6 45-64 6
AL7 20-44 7
AL8 0-19 8
Achievement Level Band scoring (Foundational)
Achievement Level Band Raw Marks PSLE Point
ALA 75-100 6
ALB 30-74 7
ALC 0-29 8

Postings for the Secondary Schools are determined by the sum of all four subjects of English, Mathematics, Science and Mother Tongue, with a possible score between 4 and 32, with a minimum passing score of 30 (see below). Attaining a merit for Higher Chinese Language (Distinction/Merit/Pass) with a PSLE score of no more than 14 will be given priority; however, no scores are displayed and no scoring system is specified as such. The eventual scores would determine the placements for the Posting level through the Full Subject-Based Banding (Academic Streaming prior to 2023):

Allocation to Levels
Posting Level/Stream PSLE Score Remarks
G1/Normal (Technical) 25-30 AL7 or better in English and Mathematics required.
G2/Normal (Academic) 21-25
G3/Express 4-22 Eligible for Higher Mother Tongue (HMTL) if student's PSLE score is 8 or less; if student had a merit grade in HCL, the minimum score is relaxed to 14.

Former scheme

[edit]

Between 2008 and 2021, students' scores are determined through the aggregate T-score system, in which students are graded relative to their peers.[2]

Achievement Level Band scoring (Standard)
Academic Grade Raw Marks
A* 91-100
A 75-90
B 60-74
C 50-59
D 35-49
E 20-34
Ungraded/F 0-19
Achievement Level Band scoring (Foundational)
Academic Grade Raw Marks
A 85-100
B 70-84
C 50-69
D 30-49
Ungraded/F 0-29

Secondary schools

[edit]

Secondary schools are the first institutions in Singapore to have implemented the "Overall Grade" grading system for academic subjects. Prior to 2023, the education system allows more students from the Normal (Academic) stream to partake the GCE Ordinary (O) Level examinations for Mother Tongue and Mathematics for a year exempting them at Normal (N) Level, resulting with quasi-Ordinary Level grading systems although Subjects for Normal-Levels are computed along with it in their result slips. The Mother Tongue Syllabus B does not use the grading system, but instead graded as either a Merit, a Pass, or an Ungraded grade.

Students are graded via the Overall Grade systems during their first three years in Secondary School, with a fourth year being different across different academic streams. Express or Special students are graded via the results from the O Levels in their fourth and final year, while Normal (Academic) use both the N and O Level results for their fourth and fifth years respectively; Normal (Technical) students would use either the N Level results or the Overall Grade format, depending on the school's method of learning.[3]

Grading for Ordinary Level
Grade Percentage Remarks
A1 75-100 Distinction may be given for top scoring students.
A2 70-74
B3 65-69
B4 60-64
C5 55-59
C6 50-54 Minimum passing grade in consideration.
D7 45-49
E8 40-44
F9 0-39
Grading for Normal Level
Grade Percentage Remarks
A 70-100
B 65-69
C 60-64
D 50-54 Minimum passing grade in consideration.
Ungraded 0-49 Results may not be displayed at result slips.

GPA and MSG

[edit]

In some Secondary Schools, the Grade Point Average (GPA) grading system is used. The GPA is usually calculated by taking the Grade Point of each subject, adding them together, then dividing the total by that number of subjects. The actual subjects counted towards the GPA computation differs between schools. For example, Victoria School gives its students the option to exclude applicable subjects from the GPA computation depending on the subject combination of the student. This GPA value is rounded to two decimal places, giving the student's GPA. Usually students with a requirement of both a pass in English Language and Mathematics with a minimum GPA of 3.0 are required to advance to the next year.

For example, the GPA table for Raffles Girls' School and Raffles Institution (Secondary) is as follows:

Grade Percentage Grade Point
A+ 80-100 4.0
A 70-79 3.6
B+ 65-69 3.2
B 60-64 2.8
C+ 55-59 2.4
C 50-54 2.0
D 45-49 1.6
E 40-44 1.2
F 0-40 0.8

For example, the GPA table for Victoria School (Integrated Programme) is as follows:

Grade Percentage Grade Point
A+ 85-100 4.0
A 70-84
B+ 65-69 3.5
B 60-64 3.0
C+ 55-59 2.5
C 50-54 2.0
45-49 1.5
D 40-44 1.0
35-39 0.5
E 20-34 0.0
Ungraded 0-20

However, the GPA table may differ from schools to schools and tracks; in the case of other schools such as Hwa Chong Institution, St. Joseph's Institution, School of Science and Technology, and Victoria School (Express), a similar grading system called the Mean Subject Grade (MSG) is used. The MSG table works similarly to the regular grading scheme (see above), with the number prefix being the determinant for the points; like in GPA, the points are calculated by average to the number of subjects taken, rounded to two decimal points.

Junior college level (GCE A and AO levels)

[edit]
Grading for Junior College
Grade Percentage H2 Rank Point H1 Rank Point Remarks
A 70-100 20 10 Distinction may be given for top scoring students.
B 60-69 17.5 8.75
C 55-59 15 7.5
D 50-54 12.5 6.25
E 45-49 10 5 Minimum passing grade at consideration.
O/S 35-44 5 2.5 Conditional Pass (denotes standard is at AO level only)
U 0-34 0 May not be reflected in the Advanced-Level result certificate.

Like in Secondary Schools, Junior College also have grading systems where grading systems are awarded for H1 or H2 subjects. H3 (previously Special papers before 2006) are instead awarded as either Distinction, Merit, Pass (H3 only) or Ungraded; as with Higher Mother Tongue subjects, these subjects does not influence the student's final score. In addition, some schools are also offering the International Baccalaureate diploma program.

To prevent grade inflation, percentage of the scores may be adjusted according to the cohort's performance, and as such the percentages are only approximate. Depending on Junior College's requirements, a D grade may be the minimum passing grade instead of an E grade, or Conditional Pass may be awarded, or both.

The grades obtained for each A-level exam subjects will influence the student's rank point. A higher score provides a better chance at admission to university, for a maximum score of 90, based on the best scores from three H2 subjects and three H1 subjects (General Paper, coursework, and one best subject of their choice). Different local universities have different requirements as indicated on their Indicative Grade Profile.[4]

Institute of Technical Education and Polytechnics (NITEC and diplomas)

[edit]

Technical schools also adopt Grade Point Average system, as scores are computed through the grades obtained from a set of modules multiplied by the number of credits given for the module (excluding modules which do not include in the GPA, industry attachments and on-the-job training, or exempted modules). The total is then divided by the cumulative number of credits for all modules taken. The grading are the same between ITE and polytechnics, but with different grading bands, which are as follows:

Grading for ITE/Polytechnics
Polytechnics Institute of Technical Education Remarks
Score Grade Grade Point Score Grade Grade Point
80-100 A 4.0 80-100 A 4.0 May be awarded Distinction (AD/Z) for top 5% of cohort.
75-79 B+ 3.5 70-79 B 3.0
70-74 B 3.0
65-69 C+ 2.5 60-69 C 2.0
60-64 C 2.0
55-59 D+ 1.5 50-59 D 1.0
50-54 D 1.0 Minimum passing grade in consideration.
0-49 F 0.0 0-49 F 0.0

And as with universities, the following conditions apply for most modules:

  • Modules with a grading system of either a Pass or Fail only award credits and does not impact the GPA.
  • Students failing to fulfill the percentage rate for the attendance requirements (based on the total number of hours in attendance and approved leave of absence), depending on the school's requirement, may be allowed to sit for the semestral exams, though only a non-graded pass (0.5) or a cap of D grade (1.0) would be factored if they passed.
  • Students who was absent for the semestral exams without a valid reason, or are caught with dishonesty, are considered to have failed the module. Students who failed the module must retake it and depending on the school's scoring system, either having a prior score overwritten or had both attempts computed. Modules which have passed, electives after exceeding the maximum number of attempts, or modules from the Polytechnic Foundation Programme, are not applicable for retaking.
  • Students are given an academic standing; students may be placed on academic probation (where most features from the school were revoked) if they have a low cumulative GPA (usually 1.0, 0.8 in NYP, or 1.4 in SP), or was dismissed from the course of study if they fail to improve their GPA for consecutive semesters, if they have passed the maximum allowable time for graduation (double the number of years for their years of study), or failing a module for multiple times, whichever fulfill first.

Students with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 (NITEC) or 2.0 (Higher NITEC; 2.5 from 2027), including up to 0.2 bonus points for Co-curricular activity (CCA) and/or 0.1 point for passing Bridging Mathematics, was also taken into consideration for matriculation in polytechnics, though this applies to most diplomas; Higher NITEC students who have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 may exempt them their first year of studies providing if criteria have been met.[5]

Like in Junior Colleges, the student's GPA from the Polytechnics would determine the admission for universities, including international ones, although this is not guaranteed even though if the student's GPA is high and has graduated with a diploma with merit.

University (degree)

[edit]

Like some Secondary schools, Institute of Technical Education and Polytechnics, universities also adopt the Grade Point Average (GPA) system.[6] However, unlike the Polytechnics, different universities have different computation for their scoring schemes; most universities use a 5.0 point scale while some universities, such as Singapore Management University uses 4.0 point scale, as stated otherwise.[7] Upon graduation, students will receive degree classification according to their CGPA/CAP.

Grading Systems

[edit]

NUS/NTU/SIT/SUSS/SUTD

[edit]
Grade Score

equivalent

Universities/Point
NUS/NTU/SIT/SUSS SUTD
A+ 75-100 5.0 5.3
A 70-74 5.0
A- 65-69 4.5
B+ 60-64 4.0
B 55-59 3.5
B- 50-54 3.0
C+ 45-49 2.5
C 40-44 2.0
D+ 35-39 1.5
D 30-34 1.0
F 0-29 0.0

SMU

[edit]
Grade Score

equivalent

Universities/Point
SMU
A+ 86-100 4.3
A 83-85 4.0
A- 80-82 3.7
B+ 77-79 3.3
B 74-77 3.0
B- 70-73 2.7
C+ 66-69 2.3
C 63-65 2.0
C- 60-62 1.7
D+ 53-59 1.3
D 50-52 1.0
F 0-49 0.0

Degree Classifications

[edit]

NUS/NTU/SIT/SUSS/SUTD

[edit]
CAP/CGPA Classification Remarks
Honours Degrees Basic Degrees
NUS/NTU/SUTD/SIT/SIT (DigiPen)* NUS**/NTU**/SUSS NUS NUS***/SUSS
4.50 - 5.00 Honours (Highest Distinction) First Class Honours Pass

with Merit

Pass

with Merit

At least A- in Honours thesis/project.
4.00 - 4.49 Honours (Distinction) Second Class (Upper)
3.50 - 3.99 Honours (Merit) Second Class (Lower)
3.20 - 3.49 Honours Third Class
3.00 - 3.19 Pass
2.00 - 2.99 Pass Pass Pass
0.00 - 1.99 Students will not graduate.

[8][9][10][11][12]

*Student admitted prior to AY2012/2013

**Student admitted from AY2020 cohort onward

***Prior 2012

SMU

[edit]
CGPA Classification
3.80 - 4.0 Summa Cum Laude (With Highest Distinction)
3.60 - 3.79 Magna Cum Laude (With High Distinction)
3.40 - 3.59 Cum Laude (With Distinction)
3.20 - 3.39 High Merit
3.00 - 3.19 Merit

[13]

Others

[edit]

Like polytechnics, universities also have an academic standing and a minimum GPA for graduation (usually 2.0), and with honor certification for reaching certain minimum thresholds for the following degrees:

  • For NAFA's master'a degree, the merit threshold is 4.5, while the minimum passing grade is 2.5.
  • For NAFA's graduate diploma, the merit threshold is 4.0.
  • For NUS' Doctor of Philosophy, master's degrees and Graduate diploma, the minimum passing grades are 3.5, 3.0 and 2.5, respectively; there are no merit certifications.

Academic Termination

[edit]

Non-SUTD undergraduate students whose cumulative GPA fell below the passing threshold at the end of the current semester may be probated or dismissed altogether depending on the university's policy:

  • In NTU, if the cumulative GPA fell below 2.0 for three consecutive semesters.
  • In NUS, for undergraduates, if the CAP fell below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters; for master's degree, if the CAP is between 2.5 and 3.0 for three consecutive semesters, or below 2.5 for two consecutive semesters; for PhD degree, if the CAP is between 3.0 and 3.5 for three consecutive semesters, or below 3.0 for two consecutive semesters. There is no academic probation for graduate diploma.
  • In SIT, if the cumulative GPA fell below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters, or had one module failed three times; however, the student will be in probation if the GPA fell below 1.75 during their first semester.
  • In SMU, if the cumulative GPA fell below 2.0 or 2.5 for two consecutive semesters, depending on the course of study.
  • In SUSS, if the cumulative GPA fell below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters. For Law students, students will face academic termination if their cumulative GPA fell below 3.0 for two semesters.
  • If the GPA fell below the threshold at the end of the final semester of study, even though it is the first time this occurs, and if the student has passed all the modules.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Descriptors for Achievement Bands and Grades (P1-P4)". clementipri.moe.edu.sg. Retrieved 2019-08-06.
  2. ^ "Updates to PSLE scoring: Foundation level grades unveiled, P5 2020 cohort to get report cards with new grade bands". Yahoo News. 25 July 2019. Retrieved 10 January 2024.
  3. ^ "Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board". Archived from the original on 2011-11-03. Retrieved 2011-10-26.
  4. ^ First, Concept (2022-02-11). "University Admission Grade Requirements: NUS, NTU, SMU". Concept First Physics Tuition Learning Centre.
  5. ^ "JPAE - Joint Polytechnic Admissions Exercise". jpae.polytechnic.edu.sg. Retrieved 10 January 2024.
  6. ^ Senior, Digital (2013-12-21). "Do you Know about the Different GPA Systems in Singapore? -". Digital Senior. Retrieved 2019-09-28.
  7. ^ "SMU Academic Guide" (PDF).
  8. ^ "Singapore University of Technology and Design: Undergraduate - degree courses in Singapore". SUTD. Retrieved 2024-03-29.
  9. ^ "Assessment & Grading System: Full-time Undergraduate Degree | SUSS". www.suss.edu.sg. Retrieved 2024-03-29.
  10. ^ "TRANSCRIPT INFORMATION – GRADE LEGEND" (PDF). www.nus.edu.sg. Retrieved 2024-03-29.
  11. ^ "Nanyang Bulletin 2010/11 Undergraduate". www3.ntu.edu.sg. Retrieved 2024-03-29.
  12. ^ "Graduation Requirements | DigiPen (Singapore)". www.digipen.edu.sg. Retrieved 2024-03-29.
  13. ^ "Frequently Asked Questions For Employers | Dato' Kho Hui Meng Career Centre". careerservices.smu.edu.sg. Retrieved 2024-03-29.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Academic_grading_in_Singapore&oldid=1259867487"