Teaching and grading

Grades are given on an absolute basis, which means that teachers test the extent to which students have sufficiently achieved the learning objectives, and do not grade on a curve. It is not possible to compensate a low grade on one course with a high grade on another course. You will need to receive a passing grade for all courses that are part of your degree programme in order to graduate.

At Utrecht University a weighted average grade is calculated by multiplying all numerical grades on the International Diploma Supplement with the credits obtained for that course, and by dividing this sum by the sum of credits. The average is built up gradually, and only the final average will be recorded on the International Diploma Supplement. Utrecht University includes grades obtained in the first year of studies in the calculation of the weighted average.

If you fail a course but score at least a 4, you are given one opportunity to take an additional or substitute test in order to pass the course. If you fail this as well, you must do the course again. You can retake a course as often as you need to achieve a passing grade. Only the passing grade is recorded on the International Diploma Supplement.