I'm trying to figure out what grades I need to aim for in college. In high school, a failing grade is usually below 60%. Is it the same in college, or does it vary depending on the school or course?
In general, for most colleges and universities, an "F" grade, or failure, is usually assigned to any score less than 60%, similar to many high schools. However, this does indeed vary from one institution to another.
For instance, some colleges use a 10-point scale, and grades below 70% are considered failing. It's also worth noting that the "D" grade, which is between 60-69% for many institutions, is often considered a non-passing grade. Although it may not be a formal fail, it often does not count towards credit for major-specific classes, and it could negatively affect your GPA.
Furthermore, some institutions have even more specific grading scales for certain courses. Especially in graduate programs or professional courses, passing grades might be considerably above 60%.
The best way to know exactly what constitutes a failing grade is to check your specific course syllabus or university's academic policies, as they will provide detailed grading scales. It is also recommended to prioritize understanding the material and doing well in your courses rather than simply aiming not to fail. College is about learning and developing skills, so set your targets high!
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