How CBU GPA Works
A comprehensive guide to The Copperbelt University's grading system, degree classification, and progression rules.
Overview
The Copperbelt University (CBU) uses a point-based grading system for degree classification. For Bachelor of Science programmes, the degree is classified as Distinction, Merit, Credit, or Pass, based on grades obtained in the 3rd and 4th years of study.
Undergraduate Grading Scale
CBU converts your percentage scores into letter grades and corresponding points on a 5-point scale. Notice how Full Courses earn double the points of Half Courses:
| Percentage | Grade | Full Course | Half Course | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 86% – 100% | A+ | 5 | 2.5 | 1st Distinction |
| 76% – 85% | A | 4 | 2 | 2nd Distinction |
| 68% – 75% | B+ | 3 | 1.5 | 1st Meritorious |
| 62% – 67% | B | 2 | 1 | 2nd Meritorious |
| 56% – 61% | C+ | 1 | 0.5 | Clear Pass |
| 50% – 55% | C | 0 | 0 | Pass |
| 40% – 49% | D+ | 0 | 0 | Fail |
| 0% – 39% | D | 0 | 0 | Fail |
How Points are Calculated
CBU uses an additive points system rather than a traditional GPA average. Your total points are simply the sum of the points earned for each course:
- Full Courses have a weight of 1.0 (e.g., an A+ earns 5 × 1.0 = 5 points).
- Half Courses have a weight of 0.5 (e.g., an A+ earns 5 × 0.5 = 2.5 points).
How Degree Classification Works
CBU uses a "total points" accumulation from 3rd and 4th year courses. The degree class depends on the number of courses in the programme:
| Courses | Distinction | Merit | Credit | Pass |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 35.5 | 25.5 | 15.5 | 0 - 15 |
| 11 | 39 | 28 | 17 | 0 - 16.5 |
| 12 | 42.5 | 30.5 | 18.5 | 0 - 18 |
| 13 | 46 | 33 | 20 | 0 - 19.5 |
| 14 | 49.5 | 35.5 | 21.5 | 0 - 21 |
| 15 | 53 | 38 | 23 | 0 - 22.5 |
Note: These cutoffs come from the CBU Bachelor of Science classification basis. A pass mark in each course, Teaching Practice, and the Research Project is 50% or better.
Assessment Weighting
Assessment consists of continuous assessment and a written examination, each weighted at 50%. Continuous assessment includes prescribed coursework such as tests and assignments, while the final written examination carries the remaining 50%.
Progression Requirements
- PassingGrades from A+ to C are considered passing and allow you to move to the next course level.
- FailingA grade of D is a fail. If you fail more than half of your courses in a single semester, you may be marked as "Excluded".
- Special CodesYou might see portal comments like NE (Not Examined), WP (Withdrawn with Permission), or S (Satisfactory - used for non-graded project courses).
Specialized Symbols
You may encounter these symbols on the Student Portal which explain why a standard grade isn't listed:
- SUPPYou are eligible to take a supplementary exam to attempt to pass a failed course.
- ExcludedA critical status triggered if you fail more than half of your courses in a single semester.
- WPUsed when you formally withdraw from a course before the deadline with university approval.
- NERecorded if you were registered but did not sit for the final exam.
- DFGranted for students who missed exams due to valid reasons like illness or bereavement.