University Grading Scale (A-F): How to Convert to Polish 2-5?
Learn about the ECTS grading system at universities and how to convert A-F grades to the Polish 2-5 scale.
Most Polish universities use the ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) scale, which uses letter grades from A to F. This is a different system than primary and secondary schools. Learn how it works and how grades are converted.
ECTS Grading Scale - Letter Grades
The ECTS system includes the following grades:
Some universities also use +/- grades (e.g., B+, C-) for greater precision.
ECTS to Polish 2-5 Scale Conversion
Typical conversion (may vary by university):
| ECTS | Polish | Description |
|---|---|---|
| A | 5,0 | very good / excellent |
| B | 4,5 | plus good |
| C | 4,0 | good |
| D | 3,5 | plus satisfactory |
| E | 3,0 | satisfactory |
| F | 2,0 | fail |
Exact conversion depends on university - check study regulations!
Percentage to ECTS Grades Conversion
Most universities use the following scale:
| Grade | Percent |
|---|---|
| 5,0 | 91-100% |
| 4,5 | 81-90% |
| 4,0 | 71-80% |
| 3,5 | 61-70% |
| 3,0 | 51-60% |
| 2,0 | 0-50% |
These are approximate values - each lecturer may use their own scale!
Differences Between School and University Systems
In school (primary/secondary):
- Scale 1-6 (1 = fail, 6 = excellent)
- Grade 2 (passing) allows promotion
- Average calculated from all subjects
At university:
- Scale A-F (or 2.0-5.0 in Polish notation)
- Grade E/2.0 is the minimum to pass
- Average calculated from ECTS points (weighted by course credits)
At university, there's no grade 1 (you get 2.0 = F = not passed immediately)
How is university average calculated?
At university, average is calculated as ECTS-weighted average:
Average = Σ (grade × ECTS points) / Σ (ECTS points)
Example:
- Mathematics: grade B (4.0) × 6 ECTS = 24
- Physics: grade A (5.0) × 4 ECTS = 20
- English: grade C (3.0) × 2 ECTS = 6
Sum: (24 + 20 + 6) / (6 + 4 + 2) = 50 / 12 = 4.17
The more ECTS points a course has, the more it affects your average!
GPA (Grade Point Average) - What Is It?
GPA is the American equivalent of Polish grade average:
Polish scale to GPA conversion:
When is it needed:
- Applying to universities abroad (USA, Canada)
- Applying for international scholarships
- Exchange programs (ERASMUS may require)
Diploma with Distinction at University
To receive a diploma with distinction, you need:
Grade average: minimum 4.50 (at some universities 4.75)
Additional conditions:
- No failing grades during studies
- Thesis defense with at least very good grade (4.0 or higher)
- Completing studies on time (without repeating a semester)
- At some universities: scientific publications or outstanding achievements
Diploma with distinction is a great asset for doctoral studies or job market!
Rector's Scholarship for Academic Achievement
At university, you can receive a scholarship for high average:
- Required average: usually minimum 4.0 - 4.5 (depends on university)
- Amount: 500 - 1500 PLN monthly (depending on university and budget)
When:
- From 2nd semester (need to pass 1st semester with high average)
- Application submission: usually September/October
Check scholarship regulations at your university!
Tips: How to Maintain High Average at University?
- Attend lectures and exercises regularly - attendance helps!
- Focus on courses with many ECTS - they affect average more
- Don't neglect 'additional' courses - every one counts
- Use retake sessions only if you have a chance for a better grade
- Ask lecturers about grade improvement before semester closes
- Remember: at university quality matters, not quantity
Summary
- Universities use A-F (ECTS) or 2.0-5.0 (Polish) scale
- A = 5.0; B = 4.0; C = 3.0; D/E = 2.0-3.0; F = not passed
- Average is calculated as ECTS-weighted average
- Diploma with distinction: average min. 4.50
- Rector's scholarship: average min. 4.0-4.5
- System differs from school - one F grade can significantly lower average!