University Grading System in Australia: Your Essential Guide

If you're an international student who has finished a course in Australia, you've likely noticed the distinctions in grading systems between Australia and your home country. Grading systems differ significantly across different nations, reflecting these unique academic cultures.

But, you may want to note that the grading system is not the same across Australia. Being a vast country, each of its states has its own system of grading. So, if you are planning to do your next course in another state or from a different university in Australia, take a look at the following tables.

The basic grading scale looks like this for most universities in Australia. However, based on which university you study in and which state it is in, the grading system may slightly differ. 

• Australian universities use diverse grading scales, varying by institution and state.
• Grades range from High Distinction to Fail, with specific criteria for each category.
• Understanding the specific grading system of your target university and state is crucial for academic planning.

For Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses

For Honours Degree

For Vocational and Trade Courses

Grading for vocational courses is binary. You either pass by achieving the required competency or fail.

Grading System Across the Australian States

Each Australian state is home to a handful of world-class universities. Due to their diversity and needs, they follow their own, unique grading system.

 Australian Capital Territory

University of Canberra, Australian National University, Charles Sturt University, UNSW Canberra, Australian Catholic University are the notable institutions in the capital territory and here is their grading system.

New South Wales

The east coast state, New South Wales, houses the University of New South Wales, University of Sydney, University of Newcastle, Macquarie University, and La Trobe University.

Northern Territory

With Darwin as the capital city, this beautiful state of Australia has Charles Darwin University and Flinders University to its name.

Queensland

The second-largest state of Australia takes pride in being home to some of the renowned institutions such as the University of Queensland, Bond University, Griffith University and James Cook University.

South Australia

South Australia is a wildlife haven of the continent and home to Kangaroo Island. The state has the University of South Australia, University of Adelaide, Torrens University, to name a few.

Tasmania

Tasmania is an island state known for its richest history and the cleanest air in the world. The University of Tasmania is the only university in the state.

Victoria

With Melbourne as capital, this industrious state of Australia features some of the best government and private universities in the country: Monash University, RMIT, Swinburne University,  Deakin, University of Melbourne, Victoria University, etc

international students should familiarize themselves with the Australian grading system, which ranges from High Distinction (HD) to Fail (F). Understanding these grades helps in adapting academically. Utilize university resources such as academic advisors and support services to ensure academic success and smooth transition.

Before you join your next course, research your favourite universities, understand their grading systems. Also, check the university website to find if the grading system has gone through any change or update.

Talk to our counsellors if you need further support in the research of your next course and university.

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