The Danish 7-point grading scale, explained
Denmark uses the 7-trinsskala (7-point scale), and it confuses a lot of people because the numbers aren't 1–7 at all. It jumps: 12, 10, 7, 4, 02, 00, -3. Here's what each grade means, the pass mark, and how it lines up internationally.
The grades and what they mean
| Grade | Meaning | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | Excellent — full command, no or few minor weaknesses | A |
| 10 | Very good — command of most of the material, minor weaknesses | B |
| 7 | Good — good command, but some weaknesses | C |
| 4 | Fair — some command, but major weaknesses | D |
| 02 | Adequate — meets the minimum requirements (pass) | E |
| 00 | Inadequate — does not meet the minimum (fail) | Fx |
| -3 | Unacceptable in all aspects (fail) | F |
The pass mark
The minimum passing grade is 02. Anything below — 00 or -3 — is a fail. The scale was designed to align with the European ECTS system, which is why it maps cleanly onto A–F.
Rough international equivalents
Exact conversions vary by institution, but as a guide: 12 ≈ A / 4.0 GPA, 10 ≈ A-/B+, 7 ≈ B/C, 4 ≈ C/D, 02 ≈ D/E (pass). Treat these as approximate — always check the receiving institution's official conversion.
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Grade my work freeFrequently asked questions
- What is the pass mark?
- 02 is the minimum pass; 00 and -3 are fail.
- What is the highest grade?
- 12 — for an excellent performance. There is no 11, 9, 8, 6, 5, 3 or 1.
- How does it map to ECTS?
- 12=A, 10=B, 7=C, 4=D, 02=E, 00=Fx, -3=F.
Related guides: How the IB is graded · German grades to GPA