How does the class grading system in UK Universities work?
The other numerical answers are generally correct, but most universities have an idea of what proportion of their degrees should be First, Upper Second and so on. Consequently, from one year to another, the grade boundaries may change by up to 5 per cent. In one year a 72 per cent may be classed as upper Second, but 68 per cent may be a First the next year. This is not a fiddle: it reflects the complexity of setting and marking exams, and the unreliability of the averaging process on some courses, for example where the majority of assessment is done via assignment/essay. Also, there has been a drift upwards in grades over the past 20 years. Nationally, in 1985, by far the commonest class of Honours was Lower Second. Now there is an even split between Upper and Lower Second. Similarly, in 1985, about 7 per cent of Honours were awarded at First, but now the proportion is around 12 per cent. Perhaps students are better, or teaching is better, or perhaps universities have realised that a h
