Understanding Nigerian University Grading System: A Complete Guide

Imagine this: you just finished your first semester at a Nigerian university, excited but nervous, waiting for your results. Suddenly, you hear classmates throwing around terms like “First Class,” “Second Class Upper,” and “CGPA.” You nod along, but deep down, you’re asking yourself—what do these grading terms really mean, and how are they calculated?

If you’ve ever found yourself in this situation, you’re not alone. Many students and even parents are confused about how the Nigerian university grading system works. This guide will break everything down in a clear, friendly, and practical way. By the end, you’ll fully understand how grades are calculated, what they mean for your academic journey, and how to use the system to your advantage.

What Is the Nigerian University Grading System?

The Nigerian university grading system is the official framework used to assess students’ academic performance across universities. It helps measure a student’s level of understanding, effort, and achievement throughout their course of study.

Unlike secondary school, where percentages are the main grading style, universities use Grade Point Average (GPA) and Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) to calculate performance. These grades eventually determine your final classification—whether you graduate with a First Class, Second Class Upper, Lower Division, or Pass.

If you’re preparing for admission into Nigerian universities, check out our guide on: How to Pass Post UTME in Nigeria: A Complete Guide for Student

Why the Grading System Matters

Understanding the grading system is more than just knowing numbers. It shapes your future opportunities, including:

• Employment: Many employers in Nigeria consider CGPA during recruitment.
• Scholarships: Academic funding bodies often set minimum GPA requirements.
• Postgraduate Studies: To secure admission into master’s or PhD programs, your grade classification matters.
• Personal Motivation: Knowing how you’re graded can inspire you to aim higher.

In short, your GPA or CGPA is not just a number—it’s a reflection of your academic discipline and future opportunities.

Nigerian University Grading System: How It Works

1. Credit Units

Every course in a Nigerian university is assigned a credit unit based on its weight. For instance:

• A core course might carry 3 units.
• An elective course might carry 2 units.

Credit units directly affect GPA calculations.

2. Grade Points

Each score range corresponds to a grade point. For example:

• 70 – 100 = A (5 points)
• 60 – 69 = B (4 points)
• 50 – 59 = C (3 points)
• 45 – 49 = D (2 points)
• 40 – 44 = E (1 point)
• 0 – 39 = F (0 points)

Note: Some universities have adopted the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) new 4-point grading system, but most still use the traditional 5-point system.

3. GPA (Grade Point Average)

The GPA is calculated per semester using:

GPA = Total Grade Points Earned ÷ Total Credit Units

4. CGPA (Cumulative GPA)

CGPA is the average GPA across all semesters. This is what determines your final degree classification.

Degree Classification in Nigerian Universities

Here’s how CGPA translates into degree classifications:

Classification	CGPA Range (5-point)	Meaning
First Class	4.50 – 5.00	Excellent performance
Second Class Upper	3.50 – 4.49	Very Good
Second Class Lower	2.40 – 3.49	Good
Third Class	1.50 – 2.39	Fair
Pass	1.00 – 1.49	Minimum acceptable performance
Fail	0.00 – 0.99	Did not meet graduation requirements

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Example of GPA Calculation

Let’s assume a student takes 4 courses in a semester:

Course	Score	Grade	Points	Credit Units	Weighted Points
ENG 101	72	A	5	3	15
MTH 101	65	B	4	3	12
PHY 101	54	C	3	2	6
GST 101	45	D	2	2	4

Total Credit Units = 10
Total Weighted Points = 37

GPA = 37 ÷ 10 = 3.7 (Second Class Upper)

This means the student finished the semester with a Second Class Upper standing.

Challenges with the Nigerian University Grading System

While the grading system is helpful, it comes with challenges:

• Different systems: Some universities use a 4-point system, while others use a 5-point system.
• Pressure on students: Many students experience anxiety about maintaining high CGPA.
• Employer bias: Some employers overemphasize grades instead of practical skills.

Read more: 

Common Academic Mistakes Nigerian Students Should Avoid

Tips to Excel in Nigerian Universities

• Attend lectures regularly and take detailed notes.
• Understand how GPA is calculated early on.
• Prioritize high-credit courses.
• Join study groups to reinforce understanding.
• Balance academics with extracurricular activities to build soft skills.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the passing grade in Nigerian universities?

The minimum passing grade is usually 40% (E) in most institutions.

2. Do all Nigerian universities use the same grading system?

No. While the NUC recommends a 5-point system, some universities have adopted the 4-point system.

3. Can a student upgrade from Second Class Lower to Upper?

Yes, if the student improves performance in subsequent semesters and boosts their CGPA.

4. Which degree classification is best for employment in Nigeria?

First Class and Second Class Upper graduates often enjoy better job opportunities.

5. Do Nigerian universities accept GPA transfers from abroad?

Some do, but grading equivalence may differ. Always confirm with the university’s admissions office.

Conclusion

The Nigerian university grading system may look complicated at first, but once you understand the basics—credit units, GPA, CGPA, and classification—it becomes easy to navigate. Your grades shape not just your academic path but also your career opportunities.

Work smart, know the system, and aim high. And remember, while grades are important, employers today also value skills, creativity, and problem-solving ability.

 Share this article with fellow students who may be confused about the grading system. Also, check out our detailed resources on [Nigerian University Admissions, Scholarships, and Career Guides] for more insights.