Grading scale

When you take an exam, you'll get a grade according to the scale A, B, C, D, E, F, or you'll get a grade set as "Pass" or "Fail".

How are the grades set?

The different grades are given according to the following general, qualitative criteria:

A – Excellent

An outstanding performance that clearly stands out. The candidate demonstrates very good judgement and a high degree of independence.

B – Very good

A very good performance. The candidate shows very good judgement and independence.

C – Good

A consistently good performance that is satisfactory in most areas. The candidate demonstrates good judgement and independence in the most important areas.  

D – Satisfactory

An acceptable performance with some significant shortcomings. The candidate demonstrates a certain degree of judgement and independence.

E – Sufficient    

The performance meets the minimum requirements, but no more. The candidate shows little judgement and independence.

F – Fail

Performance that does not meet the minimum academic requirements. The candidate demonstrates both a lack of judgement and independence.

 

Pass

The student has achieved the learning outcomes and met the minimum academic requirements of the course.

Fail 

The student has not achieved the learning outcomes or met the minimum academic requirements of the course.

Two Different Grading Scales

The University of Bergen uses two different grading scales: A–F and Pass/Fail. Some universities require all courses to have letter grades in order to transfer credits. In such cases, it is up to the receiving university to decide how to assess and transfer courses based on the official transcript issued by the University of Bergen.

Incoming exchange students should consider to take courses at the University of Bergen that are graded using the A–F scale in order to avoid potential credit transfer issues at their home institution.

Last updated: 02.07.2026