UK Degree Classification | First Class Honours Degree
Worried about what your final degree classification means for your future? You’re not the only one. Lots of students in UK universities feel confused or nervous when they hear terms like first-class honours, 2:1, or 2:2. You might be asking yourself: Will my grade affect my job chances? Can I still get into a master’s program without a 2:1? What if I end up with a 2:2? Does that mean I’ve failed?
These questions can be really stressful, especially in your final year when every mark matters. The truth is, your degree classification does influence your academic and career options, but knowing how it works and how to improve it can help you take control of your future.
In this blog, our assignment helper UK, has explained the UK degree classification in simple words so that you can understand it all with ease and boost your academic performance in UK.
What Is UK Degree Classification?
In the UK, undergraduate degrees come with different classifications based on how well you perform academically. These classifications show your overall score and help employers and universities understand your achievement level.
There are four main honours classifications, plus a pass degree for those who don’t meet the honours standards. Our assignment helper UK has broken them down step by step so that you can understand them easily.
Types of UK Degree Classifications
Each classification is based on your overall percentage score during your course. Here’s what each one means:
First Class Honours (First Class Degree): Awarded if your final mark is 70% or above. This means you’ve done exceptionally well, showing strong knowledge and critical thinking.
Upper Second Class Honours (2:1 Degree): For scores between 60–69%. This is the most common and widely respected classification, often the minimum needed for postgraduate study and many graduate jobs.
Lower Second Class Honours (2:2 Degree): Given for marks between 50–59%. It’s a pass but may limit some competitive job or academic options, though many employers accept it.
Third Class Honours: If you score 40–49%, you get a third-class degree. This means you’ve met the basic requirements but didn’t stand out academically.
Ordinary Degree / Pass: If you complete your degree but don’t meet honours criteria, you receive a pass degree. It’s valid but might offer fewer opportunities.
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What Your Degree Classification Means for You
Your classification influences how employers and universities see your academic ability. Here’s what each one says about you:
First Class Honours: Achieving this degree shows you’ve consistently produced top-quality work and have mastered your subject. It makes a strong impression for jobs and further study.
Upper Second Class Honours (2:1 Degree): It is considered above average and reflects good academic skills. It keeps many career and study options open for you.
Lower Second Class Honours (2:2 Degree): It shows that you can complete a degree; however, you might need to highlight experience or other strengths for jobs.
Third Class or Ordinary Degree: This degree reflects minimal academic success, but you can still pursue certain roles or enhance your profile through further study or training.
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Some Common Questions Students Ask About First Class Honours Degree
Here are answers to common questions about degree classifications:
What Is First Class Honours?
It’s the highest academic achievement, meaning you scored 70% or more with original, excellent work.
How to Write First Class Honours on Your CV?
Here is how you can do it:
BA (Hons) in English Literature – First Class Honours, University of Manchester (2025)
Include it in your Education section, clear and professional.
What Is a 2:1 Degree UK Equivalent To?
Roughly a GPA of 3.3–3.7, or a B+ to A- grade internationally. It’s seen as strong academic performance.
What Is a 2:2 UK GPA Equivalent To?
Usually a GPA of 2.7–3.0, or a C+ to B grade. It’s a pass and accepted for many roles.
How Is Degree Classification Calculated?
UK universities usually use a weighted average to calculate your final classification, with later years carrying more weight. Here’s how it works:
Credit Value of Modules: Well, not all models in academics carry the same value; some are less important, and some are more important. Example: a dissertation may be worth 40 credits, a small quiz 10 credits.
Final Year Counts More: Universities often use a 40:60 weighting between Year 2 and Year 3. This means that your 2nd and 3rd years at a university matter the most.
Borderline Boost: If you're just short of a higher classification, universities may review your top-scoring modules. This could help you get a higher classification.
Reward for Improvement: Some universities give extra credit to students who have performed well or have improved in their final year. Doing better towards the end of your course can work in your favour.
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How to Improve Your Degree Classification
You don’t need to be a genius, just work smart and ask for help when needed. Here are five simple tips to improve your classification before graduation:
Pay attention to feedback: Before submitting your assignments, you can ask for the tutor's feedback on your assignment. This will help you know the insights of your assignments, where you are lacking, so that you can improve them.
Start assignments early: Late submission or last-minute submission can affect your academic grades. Hence, to avoid that, make sure to craft your assignments early. Although writing an assignment takes a lot of time in researching and all, this will give you plenty of time to complete and submit your assignment on time.
Enhance your writing skills: One of the best things you can do to improve your academic grade is to enhance your writing skills. This will not only benefit you in your current academic studies but will also help in your further education in UK.
Use academic resources: Make sure that while writing your academic coursework, you effectively utilise all the academic resources available. Join workshops, study groups, and writing centres provided by your university.
Ask for professional help: While writing your coursework, if you ever find yourself getting stuck, don't stress yourself out and ask for professional help. You can also directly ask our experts, “I need help with my assignment UK”.
Locus Assignments offers expert support for UK students aiming for a 2:1 or first class honours. Just say, “I need help with my assignment UK,” and we’ve got your back.
Final Words
Whether you have a 2:2 now, want a 2:1, or dream of a first-class degree, understanding UK degree classifications helps you plan your future with confidence. It can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. We’ve helped many students across the UK improve their academic performance and take control of their futures.
Need help boosting your grades? Contact our UK assignment helper UK today. We’ll match you with a skilled writer who knows your subject and goals. Let us help with your assignments and get you closer to your dream classification.
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