How to Calculate Grades in Germany: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn the grading scale in Germany and how to calculate your academic performance effectively.

Published Jun 28, 2025

Overview

In this informative video, we explore the process of calculating grades in Germany, a system characterized by its unique 1-6 grading scale, where a score of 1 indicates excellence while 6 signifies a failing performance. Understanding this grading system is crucial for students navigating academic evaluations and for international students who may need to convert their grades to meet German standards. This video provides clarity on how to average grades and interpret the various assessments involved, making it a valuable resource for educational purposes.

Video transcript

In Germany, grades are typically calculated on a 1-6 scale, where 1 is the best and 6 is the worst. To calculate, average the scores from all assessments. Then, use the following equivalence: 1.0-1.5 (sehr gut), 1.6-2.5 (gut), 2.6-3.5 (befriedigend), 3.6-4.0 (ausreichend), 4.1-5.0 (mangelhaft), and 5.1-6.0 (ungenügend). Each major assessment is often given weight depending on school policy. Consult your specific institution for details.

Questions and answers

What is the grading scale used in Germany?
Germany uses a grading scale from 1 to 6, where 1 is the best grade (sehr gut) and 6 is the worst (ungenügend).
How do you calculate an average grade in Germany?
To calculate an average grade in Germany, sum all the individual assessment scores and divide by the number of assessments taken.
What do the grades mean in the German education system?
In the German system, grades correspond as follows: 1.0-1.5 (sehr gut), 1.6-2.5 (gut), 2.6-3.5 (befriedigend), 3.6-4.0 (ausreichend), 4.1-5.0 (mangelhaft), and 5.1-6.0 (ungenügend).
Are major assessments weighted differently in Germany?
Yes, major assessments can have different weightings in the final grade calculations based on school policies, so it's important to check with the specific institution.