By AssignmentHelpKit Editorial Team, reviewed by subject experts · · 5 min read
Australian universities grade on a percentage scale with five bands. The exact cut-offs vary slightly between universities, but most follow this pattern.
Australian grade bands
| Grade | Typical percentage | GPA (7-point) |
|---|---|---|
| High Distinction (HD) | 85–100% | 7 |
| Distinction (D) | 75–84% | 6 |
| Credit (C or CR) | 65–74% | 5 |
| Pass (P) | 50–64% | 4 |
| Fail (N or F) | Below 50% | 0–3 |
Some universities, such as those using a 1–7 grade scale directly, set slightly different boundaries. Always check your unit outline.
WAM and GPA: what's the difference?
- WAM (Weighted Average Mark) is the average of your percentage marks, weighted by each unit's credit points. Many universities use it for honours entry and awards.
- GPA converts each grade to a number (HD = 7, D = 6, C = 5, P = 4) and averages them by credit points. It's often used for scholarships and postgraduate applications.
Because GPA uses bands, a 74% and a 66% both count as a Credit (5), while WAM keeps the difference. To check where you stand on a unit, use our grade calculator and choose "Australia & NZ".
How to move up a band
Australian marking is driven by rubrics. Each criterion usually has a description for HD, D, C and P. The fastest way to improve is to:
- Read the HD column of the rubric for every criterion before you start.
- Plan one section of your assignment for each criterion.
- Check your draft against the HD descriptions before submitting.
The difference between a Credit and a Distinction is usually critical analysis: comparing sources, evaluating evidence and justifying your own position. Our guide on how to write critically shows how.
Referencing in Australia
Most Australian universities use APA 7th or Harvard, and law schools use AGLC. See our APA 7 referencing guide or create references with the free citation generator.
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