Grading in Germany differs significantly from systems used in countries like the U.S., U.K., or India. Understanding how it works—and how your grades convert—is crucial for applications and academic success.

The German Grade Scale

German universities typically use a 5-point scale, where 1.0 is the best and 4.0 is the minimum passing grade:

• 1.0 – 1.5: Sehr Gut (Very Good)

• 1.6 – 2.5: Gut (Good)

• 2.6 – 3.5: Befriedigend (Satisfactory)

• 3.6 – 4.0: Ausreichend (Sufficient)

• 4.1 – 5.0: Nicht ausreichend (Fail)

Grades may be given as decimals (e.g., 1.3, 2.7) and can influence scholarship eligibility and job applications.

Converting International Grades

To convert your grades to the German system, use the Modified Bavarian Formula: German Grade = 1 + 3 × ((Best possible grade – Your grade) / (Best grade – Minimum passing grade))

Example: If your GPA is 8/10, with 10 as the best and 4 as the minimum pass: German Grade = 1 + 3 × ((10 – 8) / (10 – 4)) = 2.0

ECTS and GPA Equivalence

ECTS credits are used throughout Europe to measure academic workload. One full academic year equals 60 ECTS credits. Some universities also provide GPA equivalents for clarity.

Always refer to official university guidelines or Uni-Assist when submitting transcripts.