Zambia Degree Classification Calculator
Calculate your degree classification and honours based on module grades and credits. Zambia uses a 5.0 GPA scale with Distinction (80%+), Merit (70%+), Credit (65%+), and Pass (50%+).
| Module Name (optional) | Grade (%) | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
Zambia Higher Education: GPA and Honours System
Zambia's university grading system uses a Grade Point Value (GPV) system on a 5.0 scale. The Higher Education Authority (HEA) and Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA) provide the framework, with degrees classified as Distinction, Merit, Credit, or Pass.
| Typical Scale | 0.0 – 5.0 (UNZA standard) or 0.0 – 4.0 |
| Typical Pass Mark | 45% (UNZA) or 50% (CBU, UNILUS) |
| Assessment Structure | CA (40%) + Final Exam (60%) |
| Full Course Credits | 30 credits (300 notional hours) |
UNZA Grading Scale (5.0 System)
| Percentage | Letter Grade | Grade Point (GPV) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 86% – 100% | A+ | 5.0 | Distinction (Upper) |
| 76% – 85% | A | 4.0 | Distinction (Lower) |
| 66% – 75% | B+ | 3.0 | Merit / Meritorious |
| 61% – 65% | B | 2.0 | Credit |
| 56% – 60% | C+ | 1.0 | Pass (Clear) |
| 50% – 55% | C | 1.0 | Pass |
| 0% – 49% | D / F | 0.0 | Fail |
Source: University of Zambia Quality Assurance Handbook. CBU and UNILUS may have slightly different percentage boundaries.
Degree Classification (Honours)
The final CGPA (usually from Years 3 & 4) determines your degree classification. This calculator maps your percentage average to these classifications.
| Classification | CGPA Range (5.0 scale) | Approx. Percentage (this calculator) | UK Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distinction | > 3.75 | 80%+ | 1st Class |
| Meritorious / Merit | 3.25 – 3.74 | 70% – 79% | 2:1 |
| Credit | 2.68 – 3.24 | 65% – 69% | 2:2 |
| Pass | 2.00 – 2.67 | 50% – 64% | Third Class |
| Fail | < 2.00 | Below 50% | Fail |
Student guidance
Don't confuse "Grade Points" with "Grade Point Average." A grade point of 5.0 for one course is NOT your GPA. Your GPA is the weighted average across all credits. Also, failing a "Full Course" (30 credits) is twice as damaging as failing a "Half Course" (15 credits).
How the Calculation Works
GPA = Σ(Course Credits × Grade Point Value) ÷ Σ(Total Course Credits). This calculator uses percentage-weighted averages: Weighted Average = Σ(Mark × Credits) ÷ Σ(Credits).
Major Zambian Universities
| University | Scale | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|
| University of Zambia (UNZA) | 5.0 | 45-50% |
| Copperbelt University (CBU) | 4.0 / 5.0 | 50% |
| University of Lusaka (UNILUS) | 5.0 | 50% |
| Northrise University | 4.0 | 60% |
Related Calculators
Other degree classification calculators
Frequently Asked Questions About Zambia Degree Classification
More resources
For more on Zambian higher education and grading:
- Academic success guides — strategies for improving grades and hitting your target classification
- Our methodology — how we ensure accurate calculations