Pass or Fail Calculator
Calculate if you’ll pass your course and what you need to pass
Different universities have different passing requirements
Your Current Marks
Your current weighted average
How much of the course is already graded
Final Exam/Assessment
How much the final exam is worth
What you think you’ll get on the final
Predicted Final Mark
0.0%
Passing Requirement
50%
Margin
+0.0%
What You Need to Pass
Minimum Final Exam Score to Pass:
0%
–
To Achieve Specific Grades:
For Credit (65%):
–
For Distinction (75%):
–
How This Was Calculated
⚠️ Common Calculation Mistakes
Remember that some courses require you to pass the final exam separately, regardless of your overall mark. Also check if your university rounds marks (e.g., UNSW rounds to nearest whole number). Always verify with your course outline.
Australian University Passing Requirements
| University | Pass Mark | Final Exam Rule | Near Pass Range | Grade Rounding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Australian | 50% | Usually must pass final | 45-49% (supplementary) | To nearest whole number |
| University of Sydney | 50% | Must pass final (≥50%) | 46-49% | No rounding |
| UNSW Sydney | 50% | Course specific | 45-49% | Rounds to nearest whole |
| University of Melbourne | 50% | Hurdle requirements vary | 45-49% (N grade) | To nearest whole number |
| Monash University | 50% | Must pass final if ≥30% weight | 45-49% | To nearest whole number |
Always check your specific course outline for exact requirements. Some courses have additional hurdles.
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How to Calculate If You’ll Pass or Fail
The pass or fail calculation determines whether you’ll achieve the minimum passing mark (usually 50% in Australian universities) based on your current performance and expected final exam results. This calculation helps you understand exactly what you need to focus on.
The Pass/Fail Calculation Formula
Final Mark = (Current Mark × Weight Completed ÷ 100) + (Final Exam Mark × Final Weight ÷ 100)
Where each component’s contribution is its mark multiplied by its weight percentage, divided by 100.
Here’s the step-by-step process for determining if you’ll pass:
- Calculate your current weighted contribution: current mark × weight completed ÷ 100
- Calculate your final exam contribution: final exam mark × final weight ÷ 100
- Sum both contributions for your predicted final mark
- Compare to the passing requirement (usually 50%)
- Calculate what final exam score you need to reach the passing mark
- Consider any university-specific rules or hurdles
Understanding Australian University Passing Requirements
Australian universities generally require a minimum of 50% to pass a course, but there are important variations and additional requirements that can affect your pass/fail status.
| Requirement Type | Description | Common Threshold | Impact on Passing | Universities Using This |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Pass Mark | Minimum overall percentage | 50% | Must achieve this overall | All Australian universities |
| Final Exam Hurdle | Must pass final exam separately | Usually 40-50% on final | Fail if below hurdle despite overall | Most, especially for ≥30% weight |
| Attendance Hurdle | Minimum attendance requirement | 80-90% attendance | Automatic fail if not met | Some practical/lab courses |
| Assignment Hurdles | Must pass specific assignments | Varies by assignment | Fail specific component | Course specific |
| Near Pass Rule | Supplementary assessment offered | 45-49% overall | Second chance to pass | Most universities |
Important: Final Exam Hurdle Requirements
Many Australian universities require you to pass the final exam separately if it’s worth 30% or more of your grade. This means even with a high overall mark, failing the final exam (below 40-50%) can result in failing the entire course.
What to Do If You’re at Risk of Failing
Immediate Action Steps
If calculations show you’re at risk of failing, take these steps immediately: Review all available past exams and practice questions. Attend all remaining lectures and tutorials. Book consultations with your lecturer or tutor to discuss specific areas of weakness. Form a study group with classmates.
Strategic Study Planning
Focus on high-yield topics that carry the most marks. Create a detailed study schedule allocating time based on topic weight and your current understanding. Use active recall and spaced repetition techniques rather than passive reading. Practice under exam conditions with time limits.
Academic Support Services
Most Australian universities offer free academic support: writing centres for assignment help, maths learning centres, peer tutoring programs, and study skills workshops. Use these services early rather than waiting until you’re in crisis.
Common Questions About Passing and Failing
What happens if I get 49%?
Most Australian universities have a “near pass” rule for marks between 45-49%. You’ll typically be offered a supplementary assessment (usually an exam or assignment). If you pass the supplementary, your grade is usually capped at 50% (P). Policies vary by university, so check yours specifically.
Do all assessments need to be passed?
Usually no, unless specified as a “hurdle requirement” in the course outline. However, some courses require passing specific assessments (like lab reports or clinical placements). Always check your course outline for any mandatory pass requirements.
Can I still pass if I failed earlier assignments?
Yes, in most cases. Australian university courses are typically graded on overall performance. A poor result on one assignment can be compensated by stronger performance on others, especially if the final exam carries significant weight. Calculate exactly what you need on remaining assessments.
What if I’m ill during exams?
Apply for special consideration immediately with appropriate documentation (medical certificate). If approved, you may be offered a supplementary exam or other assessment. Don’t wait until after results are released – apply as soon as possible following university procedures.
Strategies to Improve Your Chances of Passing
Pro Tip: The 80/20 Rule for Exam Preparation
Focus 80% of your study time on the 20% of content that carries the most marks. Review past exams to identify frequently tested topics. Prioritize understanding core concepts that enable you to answer multiple question types.
Effective strategies to maximize your chances of passing:
- Understand the marking scheme: Know exactly how each question type is marked
- Practice with past exams: Under timed conditions to build exam technique
- Focus on weaknesses: Target your lowest-scoring areas first
- Form study groups: Explain concepts to others to solidify your understanding
- Manage exam anxiety: Practice relaxation techniques and get adequate sleep
- Read questions carefully: Many marks are lost through misreading requirements
- Show your working: Even with wrong answers, partial marks may be awarded
- Review returned assignments: Learn from previous mistakes
The Consequences of Failing a Course
Academic Consequences
- • Failed grade (F) on academic transcript
- • Negative impact on GPA/WAM
- • May delay graduation
- • Could affect scholarship eligibility
- • May need to repeat the course
Financial Consequences
- • May need to pay for repeated course
- • Could affect Centrelink payments
- • International students: visa implications
- • May exceed HELP loan limits
- • Delayed entry to workforce
University Support Services Available
Academic Skills Support
All Australian universities offer free academic skills support: essay writing workshops, referencing help, maths assistance, and study skills development. These services are often underutilized but can significantly improve your grades.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
University counselling services provide free, confidential support for stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. Don’t wait until you’re in crisis – early intervention is more effective. Many also offer workshops on stress management and resilience.
Disability Support
If you have a disability, chronic health condition, or learning difficulty, register with your university’s disability service. They can provide accommodations like extra exam time, alternative assessment arrangements, or assistive technology.
Next Steps After Using This Calculator
Now that you know your pass/fail status and requirements, here’s what to do next:
1. Create a Study Plan
Based on what you need to pass, create a detailed study schedule allocating time to highest-yield topics.
2. Seek Help Early
Book consultations with lecturers, attend revision sessions, and use academic support services immediately.
3. Consider All Options
If at risk of failing, investigate special consideration, late withdrawals, or other available options.
Disclaimer: This Pass or Fail Calculator provides estimates based on standard Australian university grading practices. Actual passing requirements may vary by institution, faculty, and specific course rules including hurdle requirements. Always refer to your official course outline and consult with your course coordinator for definitive information about passing requirements. This tool is for planning and estimation purposes only.