Cambridge A-Level grades (A*–E), explained
Cambridge International A-Levels are graded A* down to E, with U for ungraded (fail). A* is the top grade and E is the lowest pass. Grades are based on Uniform Marks, so boundaries shift slightly each session to keep standards consistent.
The grades and what they mean
| Grade | Meaning | Pass? | ≈ US GPA |
|---|---|---|---|
| A* | Outstanding (top band) | Pass | 4.0 |
| A | Excellent | Pass | 4.0 |
| B | Very good | Pass | 3.5 |
| C | Good | Pass | 3.0 |
| D | Satisfactory | Pass | 2.5 |
| E | Minimum pass | Pass | 2.0 |
| U | Ungraded | Fail | 0.0 |
The pass mark
E is the lowest passing grade; U (ungraded) is a fail. The A* was added to distinguish the very strongest candidates and typically requires a very high mark across A2 papers.
Grade boundaries are set per exam session using Uniform Mark Scale (UMS) marks, so the exact percentage for each grade can move a little.
Converting A-Levels to a US GPA
As a guide: A*/A ≈ 4.0, B ≈ 3.5, C ≈ 3.0, D ≈ 2.5, E ≈ 2.0 (pass). US colleges may also grant credit for high A-Level grades, similar to AP — check each school.
A-Levels and UCAS points
For UK university applications, each grade is worth UCAS tariff points (A*=56, A=48, B=40, C=32, D=24, E=16), which universities add up to form an offer.
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Grade my work freeFrequently asked questions
- What is the pass mark for A-Levels?
- E is the lowest pass; U (ungraded) is a fail. A* is the highest grade.
- Is an A* better than an A?
- Yes. A* is the top band, introduced to separate the very strongest candidates from other A-grade students.
- How do A-Levels convert to GPA?
- Roughly A*/A ≈ 4.0, B ≈ 3.5, C ≈ 3.0, D ≈ 2.5, E ≈ 2.0 — but always check the specific institution.
Related guides: UK degree classifications · AP exam scores