What is the pass mark in Spain?

5 out of 10 (aprobado). Below 5 is a fail (suspenso).

What is matrícula de honor?

An exceptional distinction for the very best 9–10 results, limited per class, that often comes with a tuition discount.

What is a good grade in Spain?

A 7 (notable) is very good and a 9+ (sobresaliente) is outstanding; a 5 is a bare pass.

The Spanish grading system (0–10), explained

Spain grades out of 10 (nota), with named bands: aprobado, notable, sobresaliente and the top honour matrícula de honor. The pass mark is 5/10. As in much of Europe, the very top of the scale is used sparingly.

The grades and what they mean

Nota	Name	Meaning	≈ US GPA
9–10	Sobresaliente	Outstanding	4.0
7–8.9	Notable	Very good	3.5
6–6.9	Bien	Good	3.0
5–5.9	Aprobado	Pass	2.0–2.5
0–4.9	Suspenso	Fail	0.0

The pass mark

5/10 (aprobado) is the pass mark; below 5 is suspenso (fail). The best students may earn a Matrícula de Honor — an exceptional 9–10 that also brings a tuition discount and is limited per class.

A 7 (notable) is a strong grade, and a 9+ (sobresaliente) is excellent.

Converting Spanish grades to a US GPA

As a guide: 9–10 ≈ 4.0, 7–8.9 ≈ 3.5, 6 ≈ 3.0, 5 ≈ 2.0–2.5 (pass). Confirm with the receiving institution.

The named bands

Matrícula de Honor (top 9–10, capped per group) > Sobresaliente (9–10) > Notable (7–8.9) > Bien (6) > Aprobado (5, pass) > Suspenso (<5, fail).

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Frequently asked questions

What is the pass mark in Spain?: 5 out of 10 (aprobado). Below 5 is a fail (suspenso).
What is matrícula de honor?: An exceptional distinction for the very best 9–10 results, limited per class, that often comes with a tuition discount.
What is a good grade in Spain?: A 7 (notable) is very good and a 9+ (sobresaliente) is outstanding; a 5 is a bare pass.