Swiss Grading System Converter
Convert Swiss grades (1-6 scale) to US 4.0 GPA, percentages, and other international systems
Swiss Grade Converter (1-6 Scale)
Enter Your Swiss Grade:
What is the Swiss Grading System?
The Swiss grading system uses a 1-6 scale where 6 is the highest (best) grade and 1 is the lowest. This system is standardized across all Swiss cantons and universities, including prestigious institutions like ETH Zurich, EPFL, University of Zurich, and University of Geneva. Grade 4.0 is the minimum passing mark in most Swiss educational institutions, though some universities may require higher minimum grades (e.g., 4.25).
The Swiss system emphasizes precision through the use of half-step increments (0.5), particularly at university level. Common university grades include: 6.0 (Excellent), 5.5 (Very Good), 5.0 (Good), 4.5 (Satisfactory), 4.0 (Pass/Sufficient), and below 4.0 (Fail). This granular scale allows detailed academic evaluation compared to systems using only whole numbers.
Swiss grading is known to be stricter than American grading. Grades above 5.0 are considered very good, and average student performance typically ranges from 4.0 to 4.5. This reflects Switzerland's rigorous academic standards and emphasis on high achievement. When converting Swiss grades internationally, especially for US university admissions or employment, understanding these standards is crucial for proper evaluation.
While the 1-6 scale is standard, some educational programs may use variations. For example, some cantonal schools historically used a 1-5 scale, and specialized programs (like ECTS in Europe) use different frameworks. However, all major Swiss universities officially use the 1-6 scale for standardization.
Grade Conversion Formulae
Swiss to 4.0 GPA Conversion Table
Swiss Grade to US GPA Equivalent
Linear Conversion Formula
GPA = (Swiss Grade − 1) ÷ 5 × 4
Linear conversion from 1-6 scale to 4.0 scale
Swiss Grade to Percentage Conversion
Percentage = (Swiss Grade − 1) ÷ 5 × 100
Converts 1-6 scale to 0-100% scale
How This Converter Works
This Swiss Grade Converter implements linear conversion methodology to transform Swiss grades on the 1-6 scale to internationally recognized systems like 4.0 GPA and percentages.
Conversion Process
- Input Swiss Grade: Enter your Swiss grade (1.0-6.0) including half-steps (e.g., 5.5, 4.5).
- Validate Range: System checks grade is within 1.0-6.0 valid range for Swiss system.
- Apply Linear Formula: Converts Swiss grade to 4.0 scale using: GPA = (Swiss − 1) ÷ 5 × 4
- Calculate Percentage: Automatically converts to percentage using: % = (Swiss − 1) ÷ 5 × 100
- Display Interpretation: Shows grade meaning (Excellent, Very Good, Good, Satisfactory, Pass, Fail).
Important: This converter uses standard linear conversion. Some institutions may use different conversion tables. Always verify with your target institution (university, employer) for their official conversion method.
Uses of Grade Conversion
International University Applications: When applying to universities outside Switzerland (especially US, UK, Canada), institutions need grades converted to their native scale. This converter helps present Swiss academic achievement in understandable terms for admissions committees unfamiliar with 1-6 scales.
Employment & Professional Screening: International employers often require standardized grade formats for hiring decisions. Converting Swiss grades to 4.0 GPA or percentages helps potential employers assess academic qualification using familiar metrics.
Scholarship & Exchange Programs: Erasmus, Fulbright, and other international academic programs require grade conversion for scholarship eligibility assessment. Many require minimum GPA thresholds that need Swiss-to-4.0 conversion.
Graduate & Professional Programs: Medical, law, and MBA programs internationally use 4.0 GPA thresholds. Swiss students applying for these programs need accurate grade conversion to assess competitiveness.
How to Use This Converter
Follow these simple steps to convert your Swiss grades:
Step 1: Enter Your Grade
Input your Swiss grade in the converter field. Grades can be from 1.0 (lowest) to 6.0 (highest). Half-steps are supported (e.g., 5.5, 4.5).
Step 2: Click Convert
Click the "Convert Grade" button. The converter instantly processes your grade through official conversion formulas.
Step 3: View Results
See your grade converted to 4.0 GPA scale, percentage equivalent, and interpretation (Excellent, Very Good, etc.).
Step 4: Use Your Conversion
Use the converted grades for applications, employment, or academic records. Save or screenshot results for official documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Swiss grading different from US?
Switzerland and the US use different historical grading traditions. Swiss 1-6 scale emphasizes precision with half-steps, while US 4.0 GPA uses letter grades. Swiss grading is also generally stricter.
Is 4.5 a good grade in Switzerland?
A 4.5 in Switzerland is "satisfactory" - it's passing but below average. In US terms, 4.5 converts to 3.0 GPA. For good performance, aim for 5.0+.
What is the passing grade in Switzerland?
Grade 4.0 is the minimum passing mark in Swiss universities. Below 4.0 is failing. However, some programs require 4.25+ to pass or continue in program.
Do all Swiss universities use 1-6 scale?
Yes, all Swiss universities officially use the 1-6 scale. This includes ETH Zurich, EPFL, University of Zurich, University of Geneva, and others. It's standardized across Switzerland.
How strict are Swiss universities in grading?
Swiss universities have stricter grading than most international institutions. Grades above 5.0 are considered excellent. Average student performance is typically 4.0-4.5.
Can I use this conversion for official documents?
This converter provides estimates. For official conversions (scholarships, admissions), contact your institution or target organization directly. They may have specific conversion tables.
What percentage equals 5.0 in Switzerland?
Swiss 5.0 approximately equals 75-80% and 3.3 GPA. Using formula: (5.0-1)/5 = 80%. Interpretation: "Good" performance, above average.
Do employers accept this conversion?
Most international employers recognize standard Swiss-to-4.0 conversion. However, provide context (original Swiss grade + conversion) for clarity. Include transcripts showing original grades.
What if my institution uses different conversion?
Some universities (University of Basel, UZH) publish their official conversion tables. If your institution provides official conversion, use their method instead. Ask your university registrar for official table.
Official Sources & References
This converter is based on official Swiss grading standards and conversion methodologies:
-
University of Basel - Grade Conversion
Official Grade Conversion Formula -
Graduate Institute - Grade Conversion Tables
Official Grade Conversion PDF -
Swiss Education System (Wikipedia)
Swiss Grading Standards -
ETH Zurich Academic Services
ETH Home
About the Author
This converter was developed by Adam, an educational technology specialist dedicated to creating accurate, accessible tools for international students navigating global grading systems.
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