Swiss Grading System Explained (6 Is the Best Grade)
If you are studying in Switzerland or comparing a Swiss transcript to another system, the scale can seem backwards at first: higher is better, not lower, which is the opposite of Germany. Here is how it actually works.
The Swiss grade scale
- 6: excellent (ausgezeichnet / excellent)
- 5 to 5.9: good (gut / bien)
- 4 to 4.9: sufficient, the minimum pass (genügend / suffisant)
- 3 to 3.9: insufficient, a failing grade (ungenügend / insuffisant)
- 1 to 2.9: poor to very poor
- The minimum passing grade is 4.0 in most cantons.
How averages are calculated
Swiss schools typically average grades across all subjects for a final term report. Grades are averaged arithmetically, though some schools and universities apply credit weights. An average below 4.0 means the student has not passed the term or qualification.
Half-point grades and rounding
Swiss grades are often given in half-point increments: 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0 are common. Some schools use quarter-point increments. When calculating an average, the result is usually rounded to the nearest half-point or tenth, depending on the canton and level.
Switzerland vs Germany: key differences
- Switzerland: 6 is best, 4 is the minimum pass.
- Germany: 1 is best, 4 is the minimum pass.
- On a Swiss certificate, a 5 or 6 signals strong performance. On a German one, a 5 is a failing grade.
- If you are comparing transcripts, clarify which system is in use before drawing conclusions.
Higher education in Switzerland
Swiss universities including ETH Zurich, EPFL and the cantonal universities use the same 1 to 6 scale. A grade point average above 5.0 is generally considered strong; distinctions are typically awarded at 5.5 or above, though institutions vary.
GradeBuddy supports the Swiss 6-1 grading system natively: enter grades the way your school gives them and the app calculates your average per subject and across the whole term. If you are converting Swiss grades for a university application abroad, see our guide to converting grades between countries.
Common questions
- What is a good grade in the Swiss system?
- Grades of 5 and above are considered good in Switzerland. A 6 is the top grade. The minimum passing grade is 4.0.
- Is a 4 a passing grade in Switzerland?
- Yes. A grade of 4.0 or above is passing in the Swiss school system. Below 4.0 is a failing grade.
- How does the Swiss grading system compare to Germany?
- The scales are inverted: in Switzerland 6 is the best grade and 4 is the minimum pass; in Germany 1 is the best grade and 4 is the minimum pass. A 5 in Switzerland is a strong result; a 5 in Germany is a failing grade.