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Grade Description Guidelines

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SCU Grade Descriptors

(1) The following generic grade descriptors will appear on a student's record and apply unless specific grade descriptors for particular courses and units have been approved by the Academic Board or its sub-committees. A range of interim grades and other grades associated with withdrawal or special consideration are detailed in Rules Relating to Awards - Rule 3 - Coursework Awards - Student Assessment and Examinations, Section 8 - Section 10.

  1. Fail – The student's performance fails to satisfy the learning requirements specified.
  2. Pass – The student's performance satisfies all of the basic learning requirements specified and provides a sound basis for proceeding to higher-level studies in the subject area. The student's performance could be described as satisfactory or adequate or capable in relation to the learning requirements specified.
  3. Credit – The student's performance, in addition to satisfying the requirements of a Pass, demonstrates insight and ability in researching, analysing and applying relevant skills and concepts. The student's performance could be described as competent or commendable in relation to the learning requirements specified.
  4. Distinction – The student's performance, in addition to satisfying the requirements of a Credit, demonstrates distinctive insight and ability in researching, analysing and applying relevant skills and concepts, and shows a well-developed ability to synthesise, integrate and evaluate knowledge. The student's performance could be described as distinguished or proficient in relation to the learning requirements specified.
  5. High Distinction – The student's performance, in addition to satisfying the requirements of a Distinction, demonstrates distinctive insight and ability in researching, analysing and applying relevant skills and concepts, and shows exceptional ability to synthesise, integrate and evaluate knowledge. The student's performance could be described as outstanding or exemplary in relation to the learning requirements specified.

(2) For ungraded units, the following generic descriptors apply:

  1. Fail – The student's performance fails to satisfy the basic learning requirements specified
  2. Satisfied Requirements – The student's performance satisfies all of the basic learning requirements specified.