Grading Guidelines
Grading records how successfully a pupil has met the requirements of an assignment or course. Faculty assess the work submitted against those requirements and provide feedback that helps the pupil understand both the result and the next stage of their learning.
These guidelines apply to assessed work in the Psyche, Apprenticeship, and Magister programs. The pupil's age should be considered in grading, with the expectations of the relevant program and assignment kept clear.
Passing Grades and the Grading Scale
The minimum passing grade is 80%. A score of 79% or below is recorded as a failure. The highest possible grade is 100%.
The School uses the following grade ranges:
Percentage | Grade |
80–82% | B− |
83–86% | B |
87–89% | B+ |
90–92% | A− |
93–96% | A |
97–100% | A+ |
An A denotes excellent work; a B denotes above-average work. In the stated grade-point comparison, an A corresponds to 4.0 and a B to 3.0. An A+ carries particular distinction.
A grade of 100% is rare and represents nearly perfect work demonstrating exceptional mastery. Faculty may also recognize exceptional work with a Merit or a Dean's List nomination.
Qualities Reflected in a Grade
Work that meets the basic requirements with limited development and little original insight ordinarily belongs in the B− or B range. The beginning of independent thought or insight can justify a grade in the B to B+ range.
Well-developed, thoroughly researched work can reach the A range. Within that range, marks of 90–94% reflect strong work with more limited original insight. Marks of 95–100% reflect extensive work with deeper insight and a particularly strong command of the subject.
The highest marks depend on the quality of the work and the understanding it demonstrates. Detail and research should contribute to the answer, with the pupil's reasoning expressed clearly. A score of 100% is reserved for exceptionally well-researched and insightful work.
Retakes and Review
Assignments and final examinations passed with 80% or above may not be retaken to obtain a higher mark. Failed work may be retaken through the procedure arranged with the instructor, and the new grade replaces the original failing grade.
A suspected grading error should be brought to the instructor for review. Correcting an error is part of maintaining an accurate academic record. The procedure for failed work and academic review is explained in Academic Standards.
Completing a Course
To complete a course and receive credit, an Apprentice must:
Complete all assignments with a score of 80% or better.
Pass the final examination with 80% or better.
Submit the class evaluation.
Once these requirements have been satisfied, the course is marked finished and its credits are awarded. Completion should be checked in the pupil's academic record, particularly when it satisfies a Core, Major, or Minor requirement.