The grading scale in the Norwegian educational system

In the primary and lower secondary school (ungdomstrinnet, grades 8-10) and at upper secondary school (videregående skole) a 1-6 grading scale is used. This scale assesses pupil performance as follows:

• 6: Exceptionally high degree of competence in the subject
• 5: Very high degree of competence in the subject
• 4: High degree of competence in the subject
• 3: Fair degree of competence in the subject
• 2: Low degree of competence in the subject, but with sufficient competence to pass
• 1: Very low degree of competence in the subject. The pupil has not attained the competence goals in the subject

This grading scale is used for both the subject and classwork, and in examinations. The aim of the scale is to give a broad assessment of pupils’ knowledge and skills, and to give them feedback on how they are performing in relation to goals.

Assessment of order and conduct/behaviour 

All schools must have school rules in place to create a good environment for pupils and employees, and as a pupil, you must know what the rules are. You are given a grade for order and conduct based on how well you have complied with the rules at your school. You must be given information about the basis of the grade for order and conduct and what is emphasised in the grade. 

The following grades are used for order and conduct:

• Good (G)
• Fair (Ng)
• Poor (Lg)

These grades have nothing to do with completion of education, but are often emphasised by employers. 

In higher education in Norway - vocational colleges, universities and university colleges - a grading scale from A to F is used:

• A: Excellent performance, well above average
• B: Very good performance, above average
• C Good performance, which is at average level
• D: Fairly good performance, below average but satisfactory
• E: Sufficient performance to pass, but with weaknesses
• F: Fail; performance that does not meet the minimum academic criteria

This scale follows the European system, ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System), which makes it easier to compare grades between countries.

It is a good idea to contact the educational institution where you can imagine studying in Norway to find out more about conversion of grades from previous education abroad. 

On the website of The Norwegian Universities and Colleges Admission Service, NUCAS (Samordna Opptak), you will find information about assessment of foreign upper secondary education.

At the Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (HK-dir) you will find information about recognition of foreign higher education, tertiary vocational education, and vocational training.