French Grade Calculator

French universities use a numeric grading scale from 0 to 20, where higher numbers are better. The system is known for being strict: a 20/20 is virtually never awarded, and grades above 16 are reserved for exceptional work.

• Pass mark: 10/20. Below this is a fail (Ajourné or Insuffisant).
• Top-heavy scale: 18–20 is almost unattainable. 14–16 is considered excellent. 10–12 is the most common range for passing students.
• Credits: ECTS (European Credit Transfer System). 1 ECTS ≈ 25–30 hours of work. Full academic year = 60 ECTS.
• LMD System: Licence (Bachelor, 180 ECTS), Master (120 ECTS), Doctorat (PhD).
• Compensation: Failing one module can be compensated by strong performance in others, as long as the overall average is ≥10/20.

1. Individual grades: Each module (UE: Unité d'Enseignement) is graded on the 0–20 scale.
2. Coefficient (weighting): Every module has a coefficient, typically corresponding to its ECTS credits. A 6-ECTS module has a coefficient of 6.
3. Weighted sum: Multiply each grade by its coefficient: Grade × Coefficient.
4. Final average: Sum of (Grade × Coefficient) ÷ Sum of all Coefficients = Moyenne Générale.
5. Compensation: If your Moyenne Générale ≥ 10/20 for the semester or year, you pass the entire block, even if you failed individual modules.

Important: Some programs do not allow compensation for core modules or may require a minimum grade (e.g., 8/20) in each module.

• 18–20: Reserved for truly exceptional, near-perfect work. Extremely rare.
• 14–16: A target for top-tier students. Demonstrates mastery and critical thinking.
• 10–12: The most common range for successful students. Indicates solid understanding.
• Below 10: Considered insufficient. May require rattrapage (make-up exams).

In many STEM and Law programs, a 12/20 is considered a respectable result, while humanities courses may see slightly higher averages. The French system emphasizes that perfection (20/20) is unattainable, and even excellent students typically receive grades in the 13–15 range.

How it works: In most French programs, if you fail one module (e.g., get an 8/20) but do well in others (e.g., 12/20 or higher), the grades can "compensate" each other.

Passing condition: If your overall Moyenne Générale for the semester or year is ≥ 10/20, you pass the entire block, even if you failed a specific course.

Limitations:

• Some programs do not allow compensation for core/mandatory modules.
• You may need at least 8/20 in each module for compensation to apply.
• Always check your program's specific regulations.

Rattrapage (Make-up exams): If your average is below 10/20, you must attend rattrapage exams, usually held in June or July.