How to Calculate the German Grade from Percentage Grades?

The German grade or the grade in the German system are important critiria for admission in Gemany. If you’re studying in Germany or planning to have your grades recognized there, it’s crucial to understand how to convert percentage grades to the German grading system. This process can seem daunting at first, but with a clear formula, it becomes manageable. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the conversion process.

The German Grading Scale

In Germany, German grades range from 1 to 6, where 1 is the highest grade and 6 is the lowest. Here’s a breakdown of the scale:

  • 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: Mangelhaft (Poor)
  • 5.1 – 6.0: Ungenügend (Insufficient/Fail)

Conversion Formula For German Grade

To convert percentage grades to the German system, you can use the following formula:

calculate the german grade

Here’s how to apply this formula:

  1. Determine Your Percentage: Identify your obtained percentage score.
  2. Identify Max Grade: This is typically 100%.
  3. Identify Min Passing Percentage: This is usually 50%, but it can vary by institution.

Step-by-Step Example

Let’s say you have an obtained percentage of 78%. Using the standard values for max grade (100%) and min passing percentage (50%), the calculation would be:

  1. Calculate the Difference:
    Max Grade – Obtained Percentage = 100 – 78 = 22
  2. Calculate the Denominator:
    Max Grade – Min Passing Percentage = 100 – 50 = 50
  3. Apply the Formula:
    German Grade = 1 + 3 · (22/50)
    German Grade = 1 + 3 ·(0.44)
    German Grade = 1 + 1.32 = 2.32

So, a percentage score of 78% converts to approximately 2.3 in the German grading system, which is categorized as “Gut” (Good).

Practical Tips

  • Check Institution-Specific Values: Some institutions might have different passing percentages or grading scales. Always verify with your institution.
  • Use Conversion Tools: There are online calculators available that can automate this process for you.
  • Consult Advisors: If you’re unsure about the conversion, seek help from academic advisors or faculty members.

Why Convert Grades?

Understanding and converting your grades accurately is essential for several reasons:

  • Academic Recognition: Ensures your qualifications are recognized in Germany.
  • Job Applications: Many employers in Germany request academic transcripts with grades in the local format.
  • Further Studies: If you plan to pursue further education, understanding your grades in the local system is crucial for applications.

By following this guide, you can confidently convert your percentage grades to the German system, ensuring you meet the necessary academic standards and accurately present your achievements.

More about the Academic grading in Germany

Read more about study and work in Germany

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