The classification of undergraduate degrees is an important marker of academic achievement. You could get a First, an Upper or Lower Second, or a Third Class degree. These terms might sound confusing, but they just show what you’ve scored overall.

Among these classifications, the 2:1 degree, also known as an “Upper Second Class Honours degree”, is a common and respected qualification. But what exactly does a 2:1 degree mean and what is it equivalent to?

Here’s everything you need to know about 2:1 degrees. We’ll explore how it compares with other degree classifications, how rare a 2:1 degree is and the best way to write Second Class Honours on your CV.

In this article:

What’s a 2:1 degree?

A 2:1 degree, or Upper Second Class Honours degree, is an academic classification awarded to undergraduate students in the UK. It shows you’ve achieved a good standard throughout your studies. While the exact score differs between universities and courses, you’ll probably need at least 60% for a 2:1. 

An Upper Second Class Honours is one step below a First Class Honours. It’s the second-best degree classification you can get. So while it’s not the very top, it’s still a strong and highly respectable academic achievement. 

If you’re on track for a 2:1 degree, well done!

What’s equivalent to a 2:1 degree?

Internationally, the equivalent of a 2:1 degree can vary. 

In the United States, it’s often compared to a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.7 to 3.89 (on a 4.0 scale). This is known as a “Magna Cum Laude” which is one step below the “Summa Cun Laude” classification equivalent to a First.

In European countries, a 2.1 degree might correspond to a “B” or “C” rating. 

Even so, the UK’s degree system is recognised internationally. So no matter where you’re applying, your potential employer will recognise the hard work, intelligence and dedication it takes to achieve a 2:1 degree.

Here’s a comparison table for degree classifications in the UK, US and Europe.

Classification	UK Degree Classification	US Degree Classification	European Degree Classification (ECTS)
Highest	First Class Honours (1st)  Usually 70% or more.	“Summa Cum Laude” Roughly 3.9-4.0 GPA.	A or B Awarded to the top 10% or 25% of students.
Second Highest	Upper Second Class Honours (2:1) Usually 60% or more.	“Magna Cum Laude” Roughly 3.7-3.89 GPA.	B or C Awarded to the top 25% or 65% of students.
Middle	Lower Second Class Honours (2:2) Usually 50% or more.	“Cum Laude” Roughly 3.5-3.69 GPA.	C or D Awarded to the top 65% or lowest 25% of students.
Pass	Third Class Honours (3rd)   Usually 40% or more.	Pass / Satisfactory / Good Under 3.5 GPA.	D or E Awarded to the lowest 25% or 10% of students.

Is a 2:1 a good degree?

Yes, a 2:1 degree is an excellent degree. 

It’s not the top tier of academic achievement, but it shows you’ve got a solid understanding of your subject matter. A 2.1 degree also indicates you’ve performed well in your assessments (including coursework, graded essays and final exams) throughout the year. 

Many employers set a 2:1 degree as a benchmark for graduate roles. It’s often a minimum requirement for entry into competitive postgraduate programs, particularly in sectors like finance, publishing and law.

What percentage of students get a 2:1 degree?

The percentage of students achieving a 2:1 degree varies between universities and degree courses. But on average, most UK undergraduates leave university with a 2:1 or higher. 

In recent years, about 45-50% of students secured a 2:1 degree.

To compare this with other classifications, about 30% of students achieve a First Class Honours. The remaining 20% of students come away with either a Lower Second Class Honours or a Third Class Honours degree. 

Very few students fail to secure the Honours classification. But this is possible if you score under 40% on your degree.

Can I get a good job with a 2:1 degree?

Absolutely. You can land a great job with a 2:1 degree!

Employers view a 2:1 degree as strong evidence of a candidate’s capability and readiness for professional work. While some competitive roles and industries may prefer candidates with a First Class Honours degree, a 2:1 is generally more than sufficient for most graduate-level positions.

If you want to improve your CV, there are lots of things you can do in addition to your degree. For instance, you could volunteer with an organisation related to your field of study, take on work experience, extra professional qualifications or summer internships.

Do I have to put my degree grade on my CV?

While it isn’t mandatory to include your degree classification on your CV, it’s probably a good idea. This is especially the case if you’ve achieved a 2:1 or higher.

As well as the degree classification, you can add the specific grade you achieved. Again, you don’t have to do this. But if you achieved a high grade in a module related to the job, this will help your application. 

The only time you might omit your degree classification is when you have substantial work experience or other relevant qualifications showing you’ve got the skills for the job.

How do you write a 2:1 degree on a CV?

When writing a 2:1 degree on your CV, it’s important to convey the information clearly and accurately. The presentation should be professional and tailored to the job or academic position you’re applying for. 

But beyond that, you’ve got a few options. Here are some examples of how to list a 2:1 degree on your CV.

Full format

In the full format, provide comprehensive details about your degree. This includes the type of degree, subject, classification, university and year of graduation. This format is useful when applying for positions where your educational background is a critical part of the selection process.

For example:

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Upper Second Class Honours (2:1)

Queen Mary University of London, 2022

Or

Bachelor of Arts in History, Upper Second Class Honours (2:1)

The University of St Andrews, 2021

For more information on BSc Hons and BA Hons degrees (and the difference between the two), don’t miss our in-depth blogs.

Abbreviated format

The abbreviated format is more concise but still conveys the essential information about your 2:1 degree. This format is suitable for CVs where space is limited or when your professional experience is more relevant to the position.

For example:

BSc in Chemistry, 2:1

Loughborough University, 2022

Or

BA in History, 2:1

The University of Surrey, 2021

Aside from this basic formatting, here are a few more scenarios to consider.

If you’re a recent graduate applying for an entry-level job

When you’re a recent graduate with limited professional experience, your education section should be more detailed. As well as your 2:1 degree, include relevant coursework, projects and any honours or awards. You can also include specific grades if they’d benefit your application.

For example:

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1)

King’s College London, 2023

Relevant coursework: Software Engineering, Data Structures, Algorithms

Final year project: Development of a Machine Learning Model for Predictive Analysis

If you’re a professional with several years experience

For professionals who’ve been in the workforce for several years, the focus of your CV should shift more towards work experience. In this case, the education section can be more concise.

For example:

BSc in Business Administration, 2:1

University of Bath, 2018

If you’re an applicant for a postgraduate program

When applying for further studies, such as a master’s or Ph.D., you should provide a detailed account of your academic achievements, including your dissertation or thesis title. You could also include specific modules if they’re relevant to your application.

For example:

Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1)

The University of Lancaster, 2020

Dissertation: “The Impact of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Anxiety Disorders”

If you’re making an international application

If you’re applying for a job or further studies in a different country, you might need to clarify the classification system, especially if it is not commonly understood. As we’ve seen, it can get a little confusing!

For example:

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1, equivalent to a 3.8 GPA)

Imperial College London, 2019

As well as these formatting considerations, it’s important to maintain consistency throughout your CV. Ensure the format you choose for listing your degree is consistent with the rest of the document.

If you do use an abbreviation, ensure it’s widely recognised or provide a brief explanation. And of course, always, always, double-check your spelling of the university, degree title and year of graduation to avoid any errors!

If you’re on track for a First Class Honours degree, here’s your comprehensive guide to writing this classification on your CV.

Graduate coaching: Helping you succeed in your early career

To understand how to present your degree, create a stellar CV, navigate the job market and unlock top interview performance, get in touch with our expert team today. At Academic Coaching, we specialise in helping graduates identify and achieve their early career goals.

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