The Japanese grading system varies across different levels of education (elementary, junior high, high school, and university), but it generally follows a numerical scale that is converted into letter grades or descriptive categories. Below is an overview of the typical grading scales used in Japan.
Common Grade Scale in Japan
The most common Japanese grading scale is shown below:
To calculate your Grade based on the Japanese grading scale, customize the grading scale as yours and use the Grade Calculator.
Key Features of the Japanese Grading System:
Exemplary Performance (S, A+): 90-100%, denoted by "秀" (Shū), equates to an A+ in the US.
Very Good (A): 80-89.99%, described as "優" (Yū), equivalent to an A in the US.
Good (B): 70-79.99%, referred to as "良" (Ryō), matching a B in the US.
Satisfactory (C): 60-69.99%, marked by "可" (Ka), corresponding to a C in the US.
Fail (F): Below 60%, indicated by "不可" (Fuka), means failure.
Pass (P): Pass/fail courses without specific percentages, denoted by "パス" (Pasu).
Now, let’s review the Japanese grading system for different educational levels:
Elementary and Junior High School Grading
In elementary and junior high schools in Japan, the grading system is relatively straightforward and often focuses on qualitative assessments rather than strict numerical grades. Teachers provide detailed written evaluations, offering insights into students' strengths and areas for improvement. Typically, grades are given on a scale of 1 to 5:
5 (Excellent)
4 (Very Good)
3 (Good)
2 (Needs Improvement)
1 (Failing)
Japanese High School Grading System
In Japanese high schools, grades are often assigned using a letter system, which can be compared to English terms and mapped to equivalent percentage ranges and GPA values. Here is a common grading scale:
You can utilize the High School Grade Calculator to calculate your grade after customizing the grading system according to the Japanese High School grading system.
Japanese College Grading Scale
In Japan, the grading scale typically used in colleges or universities is somewhat similar to the one you provided, but it may vary slightly depending on the institution. Here's a generalized version:
4-Scale University
In Japan, the 4-scale university grading system is a commonly used method for evaluating student performance at the college level. Unlike the more intricate grading systems found in some Western countries, this system simplifies assessment into four main categories: A, B, C, and F.
How to calculate GPA in Japan?
To calculate GPA in Japan, you can use the GPA Calculator and follow these steps:
Assign Numerical Values to Letter Grades: Each letter grade corresponds to a numerical value based on the grading scale provided.
Determine Credit Hours: Each course is assigned a certain number of credit hours, representing the weight of the course.
Calculate Grade Points: Multiply the numerical value of each letter grade by the credit hours for the corresponding course.
Total Grade Points: Sum up all the grade points earned across all courses.
Total Credit Hours: Sum up all the credit hours for all courses.
Calculate GPA: Divide the total grade points by the total credit hours to obtain your GPA. The formula is:
GPA=[Total Grade Points / Total Credit Hours]
Optional Step for Weighted GPA: If your GPA is weighted, such as for honors or advanced courses, adjust the numerical values of letter grades accordingly before calculating your GPA.
Comparing Japanese and US Grading System
The Japanese and US grading systems both use numerical and letter grades to evaluate student performance. While both systems employ a scale from 0 to 100 and utilize letter grades like A, B, C, D, and F, they differ in several key aspects. In Japan, passing grades typically start around 60% and may consider behavior and effort alongside academic achievement, reflecting a strong emphasis on standardized testing and academic achievement.
Conclusion
The Japanese grading system, with its unique letter grades and high academic standards, reflects the country's emphasis on excellence and consistency in education.