The grading system in Tanzania runs on a scale based on 1 to 10. Here is a detailed breakdown of the grading system:
How does the grading system work?
The grading system used in Tanzania comprises 10 grades. Grades are awarded to candidates in national examinations conducted by The National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA), which set the national curriculum and standards for both ordinary and advanced secondary education in Tanzania. These exams are divided into two categories:
- The Ordinary Level National Examinations (O-Levels) are undertaken by candidates at the end of four years of secondary education, leading to the award of a General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE).
- The Advanced Level National Examinations (A-Levels) are undertaken by candidates at the end of two years of advanced secondary education, leading to the award of an Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education (ACSE).
Grades Awarded in Tanzania
The grades awarded in Tanzania are as follows:
| Grade | Percentage | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0-29% | Poor |
| 2 | 30-39% | Below average |
| 3 | 40-49% | Average |
| 4 | 50-59% | Good |
| 5 | 60-69% | Very good |
| 6 | 70-79% | Excellent |
| 7 | 80-89% | Outstanding |
| 8 | 90-100% | Exceptional |
The use of division in grading
In addition to the numerical grades, students’ performance is also assessed in divisions. The division marks indicate the level of achievement of a candidate. Division marks are indicated by a division number placed before the grade number. There are three divisions:
- Division I for grades 1-3
- Division II for grade 4
- Division III for grades 5-7
For example, a student with an overall score between 75-79% would be awarded a Division II, Grade 6.
Grade Point Average
The Grade Point Average (GPA) is used to calculate a student’s overall academic performance. The GPA is calculated by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of credit hours attempted. In Tanzania, the GPA scale runs from 0.0 to 4.0, with 4.0 being the highest possible GPA.
Promotion and graduation requirements
To be promoted to the next class, students must pass all their subjects. Students that fail more than two subjects must repeat the year. To graduate, students must pass all of their subjects and obtain a minimum GPA of 2.0
Changes to the grading system
The grading system in Tanzania has undergone some changes over the years. In 2006, the Tanzania Institute of Education recommended a shift from a 9-point grading system to a 10-point grading system. The 10-point grading system was fully implemented in 2007.
Conclusion
The grading system in Tanzania is designed to assess the academic performance of students at both the ordinary and advanced secondary levels. The grading system uses a scale of 1 to 10, with grades being awarded based on the percentage of marks obtained in national examinations. In addition to numerical grades, students’ performance is also assessed in divisions. The grading system in Tanzania ensures that students are evaluated fairly and consistently based on their academic achievements.
