University Grading System in Malaysia: GPA, CGPA & What They Mean

If you're an international student, you'll be pleased to know that Malaysia university grading system shares similarities with the US system, making it easier for you to adapt. 

At the university level, grading practices encompass coursework, examinations, and additional forms of evaluation, such as in-class participation and attendance.

In this article, we’ll explore how the Malaysian grading system works, including the GPA and CGPA systems, and how they can impact your education and career. 

What is the University Grading System in Malaysia?

An academic grading system at the university level in Malaysia is a method employed by higher education institutions to evaluate and assess the performance of students in their academic pursuits. 

Malaysia’s university grading system typically follows a letter grade format combined with a GPA (Grade Point Average) or CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average). Most universities use a 4.0 grading scale, where each letter grade corresponds to a specific grade point. 

For example, a student scoring 80% might receive an A (4.00), while one with 67% would get a B (3.00). This grading structure ensures consistent evaluation across subjects and semesters, using these grade points to calculate GPA and CGPA, which reflect overall academic performance.

Here’s a breakdown of typical grading scale in Malaysia:

Top University Grading Systems in Malaysia

1. Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)

• A+ (80-100): Distinction (4.0)
• B+ (70-74.99): Merit (3.33)
• C (55-59.99): Pass (2.0)
• F (20-29.99): Fail (0.0)

2. Monash University Malaysia

• HD (80-100): High Distinction (A+)
• D (70-79): Distinction (A)
• P (50-59): Pass (C)
• N (0-49): Fail (F)

3. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)

• A (A+): Excellent (4.0)
• B (B): Good (3.0)
• D (D): Pass (1.0)
• E (F): Fail (0.0)

4. University of Malaya (UM)

• A+ (90-100): Excellent (4.0)
• B+ (70-74): Good (3.33)
• C (50-54): Pass (2.0)
• F (0-34): Fail (0.0)

5. University of Technology Malaysia (UTM)

• A+ (90-100): Excellent (4.0)
• B+ (70-74): Good (3.33)
• C (50-54): Pass (2.0)
• F (0-29): Fail (0.0)

What is GPA and How is It Calculated in Malaysia?

GPA (Grade Point Average) is a way to measure your academic performance for a specific semester. In Malaysia, most universities use the 4.0 GPA scale, where each grade is assigned a certain number of points.

How is GPA Calculated?

Your GPA is calculated by multiplying the grade points for each course by the number of credit hours, adding these up, and then dividing the total by the number of credits you've taken.

Here's a simple formula:

GPA = Total Credit Hours 
           Total Grade Points
​
Example of Common GPA Scale (4.0):

• A (4.00 points) = Excellent
• B+ (3.33 points) = Good
• C (2.00 points) = Satisfactory
• D (1.00 point) = Passing
• F (0.00 points) = Fail

Each university might slightly vary the scale, but the 4.0 system is widely adopted across Malaysia.

What is CGPA and How Does It Differ from GPA?

CGPA  is the overall measure of your academic performance across all semesters, while GPA reflects your performance for a single semester.

GPA is calculated for just one semester's courses.
CGPA takes into account your grades from all completed semesters, offering a broader view of your academic progress.

How is CGPA Calculated?

CGPA is calculated similarly to GPA but includes the grade points and credit hours from all semesters. The formula is:

CGPA =  Total Credit Hours Across All Semesters
               Total Grade Points Across All Semesters
​

In short, CGPA shows your cumulative academic performance throughout your degree program, while GPA tracks your progress in individual terms.

What is a Passing Grade in Malaysian Universities?

In most Malaysian universities, the minimum passing grade is typically set at 40% to 50%, depending on the institution and specific course requirements. This means that students need to achieve at least this percentage to pass a course.

Example Courses:

Business Management
Passing Grade: 40%
Students scoring below 40% may need to retake the course or take a supplementary exam.

Engineering 
Passing Grade: 50%
A score below 50% typically requires a retake, as this knowledge is essential for progressing in engineering programs.

Information Technology IT
Passing Grade: 45%
If you score below 45%, you might be given the option to take a supplementary exam to improve your grade.

Hotel Management & Hospitality
Passing Grade: 50%
Students with a grade below 50% will generally need to retake the course to fulfill their degree requirements.

Retaking Courses and Supplementary Exams

If you receive a grade below the passing mark—usually a D or F—you may be required to retake the course or take a supplementary exam to improve your grade.

• D (Marginal Pass): Some universities may allow students with a D to proceed, but it often comes with a warning to improve in future assessments.
• F (Fail): Students with an F will typically need to retake the course to meet graduation requirements.

Furthermore, constructive feedback provides not only recognition but also suggestions for improvement. It guides students on refining their study habits and addresses topics that may require additional attention.

5 Reasons Why Your GPA and CGPA Matter 

Maintaining a strong GPA (Grade Point Average) or CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) is important in shaping your academic and career path. But how? Let’s find out!

1. Scholarship Opportunities: Many scholarship programs set a minimum GPA requirement. A higher GPA not only qualifies you but also makes you a more competitive candidate for merit-based awards. For more details, check out our guide on scholarships and financial aids in Malaysia.

2. Internship Selection: Companies often consider your GPA during the internship application process. A strong GPA demonstrates your commitment and ability to thrive in a challenging academic environment, making you a more attractive candidate.

3. Job Prospects: Employers frequently use GPA as a benchmark to evaluate candidates, especially for entry-level positions. A solid GPA can serve as ab indicator in determining your performance in  future job prospects.

4. Networking Opportunities: Excelling academically can lead to valuable networking opportunities with professors and industry professionals, potentially opening doors to job offers or recommendations.

5. Postgraduate Admissions: If you’re thinking about further studies, most postgraduate programs in Malaysia have specific GPA requirements. Many universities look for a minimum CGPA of 3.0 or higher. More competitive fields may demand even higher scores! 

Understanding the university grading system in Malaysia can help better position yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is a good GPA in Malaysia?

A good GPA in Malaysia is usually between 3.0 and 4.0, with 4.0 being the highest you can get. If I have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, it’s often seen as good enough for scholarships and job opportunities. Understanding the university grading system in Malaysia helps me set clear goals for my studies.

2. Can I improve my GPA or CGPA?

Yes, you can definitely improve my GPA or CGPA! By putting in consistent effort and using good study habits, you can make a difference. Seeking help from professors and staying organized can really help you do better.

3. Do Malaysian universities accept international qualifications?

Yes, Malaysian universities typically recognize international qualifications. However, you may need to convert them to fit the Malaysian grading system or undergo an equivalency assessment to meet the university grading system in Malaysia.

4. Can I use my Malaysian grades to apply to universities abroad?

Yes, you can use your Malaysian grades to apply to foreign universities. Keep in mind that some institutions might require a grade conversion or an equivalency certificate based on the GPA and CGPA system in Malaysia.

Wrap Up

To wrap it up, I want to say that understanding the university grading system in Malaysia is key to your success in Malaysian universities.

A good GPA can help you earn scholarships, land internships, and gain admission to further studies, while knowing the Malaysian grading system helps you set clear goals.

If you’re an international student looking to study in Malaysia, we’re here to guide you through the process. 

Talk to our advisors and they will help you with any questions you have.