Grading System in Ghanaian Universities Explained
Learn how the grading system in Ghanaian universities works. This detailed guide explains GPA, CWA, degree classifications, grading scales used by UG, KNUST, UCC, UEW, and more, with clear examples and FAQs.
Understanding how grades are calculated in Ghanaian universities is important for students, parents, employers, and international institutions. Ghana uses a structured grading system that combines letter grades, percentage scores, and grade points to assess academic performance.
Although most universities follow a similar framework, there are differences in grading scales, GPA calculations, and degree classification cutoffs across institutions such as the University of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, University of Cape Coast, and University of Education Winneba.
This guide explains everything clearly, from how grades are awarded to how First Class and Second Class degrees are determined.
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Overview of the Ghanaian University Grading System
Most Ghanaian universities use:
- Letter grades such as A, B+, B, C+, C, D+, D, E, and F
- Percentage score ranges
- Grade Point Average (GPA) or Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA)
Grades are earned per course and combined over semesters to determine a student’s final academic standing.
Common University Grading Scale in Ghana
Below is a widely used grading scale, similar to what is applied at the University of Cape Coast and several other public universities.
| Letter Grade | Percentage Range | Grade Point | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | 80–100% | 4.0 | Excellent |
| B+ | 75–79% | 3.5 | Very Good |
| B | 70–74% | 3.0 | Good |
| C+ | 65–69% | 2.5 | Fairly Good |
| C | 60–64% | 2.0 | Fair |
| D+ | 55–59% | 1.5 | Barely Satisfactory |
| D | 50–54% | 1.0 | Weak Pass |
| E | 45–49% | 0.0 | Fail |
| F | 0–44% | 0.0 | Fail |
Some universities merge E and F as a single fail grade.
Grading System by Major Ghanaian Universities
University of Ghana (UG)
The University of Ghana uses a letter grade and GPA system. While the grade descriptions are consistent, the grading framework has evolved over time.
Current UG grading approach includes:
- A, B+, B, C+, C, D+, D, E, F
- GPA calculated on a 4.0 scale
- Degree classification based on cumulative GPA
UG places strong emphasis on consistency across semesters when determining final class.
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
KNUST primarily uses the Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA) instead of GPA.
| Grade | Percentage Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| A | 70–100% | Excellent |
| B | 60–69% | Very Good |
| C | 50–59% | Good |
| D | 40–49% | Satisfactory |
| F | 0–39% | Fail |
KNUST degree classifications are based on CWA, not GPA.
University of Cape Coast (UCC)
UCC uses a GPA system similar to international standards.
- GPA scale ranges from 0.0 to 4.0
- Letter grades closely match percentage ranges
- Degree classification is based on final cumulative GPA
UCC often has slightly higher GPA cutoffs for First Class compared to other universities.
University of Education Winneba (UEW)
UEW follows a grading structure similar to UCC and UG, using:
- Letter grades with percentage equivalents
- GPA calculation
- Degree classification based on cumulative GPA
Degree Classification in Ghanaian Universities
Degree classifications indicate a student’s overall academic performance at graduation.
Common Degree Classification Cutoffs
| Classification | GPA or CWA Range |
|---|---|
| First Class | 3.5 and above GPA or 70% and above CWA |
| Second Class Upper (2:1) | 3.0 – 3.49 GPA |
| Second Class Lower (2:2) | 2.5 – 2.99 GPA |
| Third Class or Pass | 2.0 – 2.49 GPA |
| Fail | Below 2.0 GPA |
Exact cutoffs vary slightly by institution and faculty.
Difference Between GPA and CWA
GPA (Grade Point Average)
- Used by UG, UCC, UEW, and many private universities
- Based on grade points and course credit hours
- Calculated on a 4.0 scale
CWA (Cumulative Weighted Average)
- Used mainly by KNUST
- Based on weighted percentage scores
- Reflects overall numerical performance
Both systems measure academic achievement but use different calculation methods.
How Grades Affect Employment and Postgraduate Studies
- Employers in Ghana often request degree classification
- International universities convert Ghanaian GPA or CWA to their local scale
- First Class and Second Class Upper degrees improve scholarship and postgraduate opportunities
Understanding your grading system helps you plan academically and professionally.
Common Student Questions and Quick Answers
Q. What GPA is First Class in Ghana?
Usually 3.5 and above, depending on the university.
Q. Is 70 percent First Class in Ghana?
At KNUST, yes. At GPA based universities, it depends on cumulative grade points.
Q. Is C a pass in Ghanaian universities?
Yes. C and above are considered pass grades in most institutions.
Q. Can grading scales change?
Yes. Universities periodically update grading regulations, so students should always check official handbooks.
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Conclusion
The grading system in Ghanaian universities is structured, transparent, and comparable to international standards. While the core grading framework is similar across institutions, students must understand their specific university’s regulations to accurately track academic progress.
Knowing how grades, GPA, and degree classifications work helps students set realistic academic goals and prepare better for future opportunities.
FAQs About the Grading System in Ghanaian Universities
What grading system is used in Ghanaian universities?
Most use a letter grade system combined with GPA or CWA calculations.
Is the grading system the same in all universities?
No. The structure is similar, but percentage ranges and degree cutoffs differ by institution.
What is the difference between GPA and CWA?
GPA uses grade points on a 4.0 scale, while CWA uses weighted percentage averages.
Do private universities in Ghana use the same grading system?
Most private universities follow the GPA system, but policies may vary.
How do Ghanaian grades convert internationally?
They are usually converted to US or UK grading systems by credential evaluation bodies.
