What is the pass mark for a module?

Usually 50%, represented by the letter grade PA (Pass). This gives 0.5 grade points on the 4.0 scale.

How do Credit Points work?

A standard course is usually 6 credits. A full-time load is typically 24 credits per semester. Core courses may be 12 credits.

If I fail and repeat, does the F stay in my GPA?

At UPNG, the highest grade usually replaces the lower one in the CGPA, effectively 'erasing' the F from the average (though it may remain on the transcript history). Check your institution's specific policy.

What is the difference between HD and DI?

HD (High Distinction) is 85%+ and worth 4.0 grade points. DI (Distinction) is 75-84% and worth 3.0 grade points.

Is a GPA of 1.75 enough to graduate?

Most faculties require a minimum CGPA of 2.0 for graduation, though entry into some foundation years requires only 1.75. Always check your faculty's requirements.

How are PNG degrees viewed internationally?

PNG degrees are well-understood in Australia due to historical links. A PNG 'Credit' (CR) is often equated to an Australian 'Credit' (65-74%). For UK applications, a PNG First Class is usually considered equivalent to a UK First. For US applications, WES or Scholaro evaluations may adjust the 0.5 Pass grade upward.

What grades are excluded from GPA calculation?

Courses with an 'X' (Exemption) or 'W' (Withdrawal) grade are excluded from the GPA divisor. Only graded courses count toward your average.

What is Academic Probation?

Academic Probation typically applies if your GPA falls below 1.50 (varies by faculty). You may be required to reduce your course load or meet other conditions to continue your studies.

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Papua New Guinea Degree Classification Calculator

Calculate your final degree classification based on module grades, credits, and year weightings. PNG uses a GPA system with Australian/North American influences. First Class requires approximately 80%+ (GPA 3.75+).

Papua New Guinea Degree Classifications at a Glance

First (1st)

80%+

Upper Second (2:1)

75-79%

Lower Second (2:2)

70-74%

Third Class

50-69%

Fail

Below 50%

Year Weightings

Set how much each year counts toward your final classification

Year 1 Weight (%)

Year 2 Weight (%)

Year 3 Weight (%)

Quick presets:

Module Grades

Enter your module grades and credit values

Module Name (optional)	Grade (%)	Credits

Module 1

Grade (%)

Credits

Year 1 Average:No valid data

Total Credits:0

Your Results

Final degree classification

Enter module grades and credits to see your classification

Classifications may vary by university. Some institutions use borderline rules, discretionary marks, or different weighting schemes. Always verify with your university's regulations.

Papua New Guinea Higher Education: GPA and Degree Classification

Papua New Guinea's university system is a hybrid of Australian and North American influences. Students receive both a letter grade and a numeric GPA. The final CGPA determines the Class of Degree (First Class, Second Class Upper/Lower, Third Class/Pass).

Quick Facts

Typical Scale	0.0 – 4.0 (Standard) or 0.0 – 5.0 (Some institutions)
Typical Pass Mark	50% (Grade: PA or C)
Full-Time Load	24 Credit Points per semester
Resits / Retakes	Highest grade replaces lower grade in CGPA (UPNG)

PNG University Grading Scale

Percentage	Letter Grade	Grade Points	Meaning
85% – 100%	HD	4.0	High Distinction
75% – 84%	DI	3.0	Distinction
65% – 74%	CR	2.0	Credit
60% – 64%	UP	1.0	Upper Pass
50% – 59%	PA	0.5	Pass
0% – 49%	NN / F	0.0	Fail (No Grade)

Source: UPNG GPA Calculation Guide; Scholaro PNG Database. Scale used by UPNG, PNGUoT, and Divine Word University.

Degree Classification (Honours)

The final CGPA determines your Class of Degree. This calculator uses percentage-weighted averages that map to PNG Honours bands.

Classification	GPA Range	Approx. Percentage (this calculator)
First Class Honours	3.75 – 4.00	80%+
Second Class Honours (Upper)	3.25 – 3.74	75% – 79%
Second Class Honours (Lower)	2.75 – 3.24	70% – 74%
Third Class / Pass	2.00 – 2.74	50% – 69%
Fail	Below 2.00	Below 50%

Student guidance

Students often calculate a simple average of their letter grades. In PNG, you must multiply by the Credit Points. A failure in a 12-credit core unit will pull your GPA down twice as hard as a failure in a 6-credit elective. Always weight by credits!

How the Calculation Works

GPA and Weighted Average

GPA = Σ(Grade Points × Credit Points) ÷ Σ(Total Credit Points). This calculator uses the same idea with percentage marks: weighted average = Σ(Mark × Credits) ÷ Σ(Credits). Enter your percentage per course (from your transcript) and set year weights. The result maps to the Honours bands above.

Example: 4 courses totaling 24 credits. Grades: DI (75%), CR (68%), PA (55%), HD (88%). Credits: 6, 6, 6, 6. Weighted = (75×6 + 68×6 + 55×6 + 88×6) / 24 = 71.5% → Second Class Honours (Lower).