The Swedish grading system (A–F), explained
Since 2011 Sweden uses a six-grade A–F scale (betyg). It looks like American letters but works differently: E is the lowest pass and F is the only fail — there is no D-as-fail here. A, B and C are the strong grades.
The grades and what they mean
| Grade | Meaning | Pass? | ≈ US GPA |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Excellent | Pass | 4.0 |
| B | Very good (between A and C) | Pass | 3.7 |
| C | Good | Pass | 3.3 |
| D | Satisfactory (between C and E) | Pass | 2.7 |
| E | Adequate — minimum pass | Pass | 2.0 |
| F | Fail | Fail | 0.0 |
The pass mark
E is the minimum passing grade. F is the only failing grade. B and D are 'in-between' grades: you get a B when you meet all of the C criteria and most of the A criteria.
This criterion-referenced design means grades reflect how many of the stated knowledge requirements you meet, not a class ranking.
Converting Swedish grades to a US GPA
A common approximation is A ≈ 4.0, B ≈ 3.7, C ≈ 3.3, D ≈ 2.7, E ≈ 2.0 (pass). Confirm with the receiving university, as some map E lower.
Older Swedish grades
You may still see the pre-2011 words MVG (Mycket väl godkänt), VG (Väl godkänt) and G (Godkänt). Roughly, MVG ≈ A, VG ≈ C, G ≈ E.
Få ditt betyg direkt
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Grade my work freeFrequently asked questions
- Is E a pass in Sweden?
- Yes. E is the lowest passing grade; F is the only fail.
- What is the highest Swedish grade?
- A is the top grade, for excellent work that meets all the knowledge requirements.
- What do B and D mean?
- They are bridging grades: B means you fully meet the C criteria and most of the A criteria; D sits between C and E.
Related guides: Norwegian grading system · Finnish grading system