The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) employs a distinctive and detailed grading system that reflects the high academic standards expected of its students. As one of Australia’s leading universities, UniMelb uses a criterion-referenced grading scale designed to provide clear differentiation of student achievement across undergraduate, honours, and postgraduate coursework degrees.
Overview of the Grading Scale
UniMelb’s grading system is structured primarily around the Honours Level (HL) scale, which is unique among Australian universities for its fine distinctions within the upper grade ranges. The key grades and their corresponding percentage ranges are as follows:
| Grade | Percentage Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| H1 | 80% – 100% | First Class Honours |
| H2A | 75% – 79% | Second Class Honours Division A |
| H2B | 70% – 74% | Second Class Honours Division B |
| H3 | 65% – 69% | Third Class Honours |
| P | 50% – 64% | Pass |
| N | 0% – 49% | Fail |
This scale applies to bachelor’s degrees and coursework master’s degrees. The university also uses a research master’s grading scale with similar distinctions but different labels (e.g., M1, M2A).
Special Grades and Codes
In addition to the standard grades, UniMelb employs several special result codes to reflect different academic circumstances:
- NH (Not Hurdle): Indicates a fail due to not meeting hurdle requirements despite an otherwise passing mark.
- SPE (Special Assessment): Awarded following special consideration.
- SUP (Supplementary Assessment): Offered as a reassessment opportunity.
- WAF (Withheld): Assessment results pending finalization.
- WXT (Extension): Indicates an extension has been granted.
- CMP / FL: Pass or fail grades for subjects graded on a pass/fail basis without a numerical mark.
Honours Degree Grading
For honours degrees, the same HL scale is used, but the university uniquely separates the second class honours into two divisions (H2A and H2B) with narrow percentage bands (5% and 4% ranges respectively). This fine granularity helps distinguish levels of academic excellence more precisely than broader grading bands used elsewhere.
Proposed Changes and Student Feedback
There have been discussions about potentially shifting from the Honours grading system to a more conventional system (High Distinction, Distinction, Credit, Pass) with adjusted percentage cut-offs (e.g., HD = 80-100%). While some students welcome simplification, others value the detailed differentiation the current system provides, especially the distinctions between low and high 70s, which they feel reflect meaningful differences in understanding and effort.
Additionally, proposals to include cohort median scores and enrollment numbers on transcripts have sparked debate, with concerns about privacy and the impact on student confidence.
Accessing Your Results
Students can access their grades and academic statements through the University’s online student portal. Results are typically released after the examination periods, with supplementary exam results following later. The university provides comprehensive policies and FAQs outlining grading interpretations and academic progress.
Why UniMelb’s Grading System Matters
- Clear Differentiation: The Honours grading scale allows for nuanced recognition of student achievement.
- Academic Rigor: The system reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining high standards.
- Transparency: Special codes and policies clarify circumstances affecting grades.
- Preparation for Future Study: The detailed grading can be advantageous for postgraduate admissions and scholarships.
The University of Melbourne’s grading system is a hallmark of its academic excellence, offering a precise and fair method of evaluating student performance. Understanding this system helps students set realistic goals, interpret their results accurately, and plan their academic journey effectively