*Start for $20 offer applies to select programs.
Penn Foster Grading System
While our online school differs from traditional settings, you'll find that our grading scale is designed with a similar goal in mind: to help you prepare for the next phase of your life. Penn Foster uses a number-letter system of grading, with number grades being assigned to examinations and letter grades to completed courses.
Penn Foster High School Grading System
In the High School Diploma Program, you’ll complete lessons and take exams on your schedule. Most exams are multiple choice and you should automatically receive a grade after you complete it.
| Lesson Grade (%) | Letter Equivalent | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 90-100 | A | Excellent |
| 80-89 | B | Good |
| 70-79 | C | Average |
| 65-69 | D | Passing |
| Below 65 | F | Failing |
An overall course grade of 65% or above in each subject, and successful completion of 21.5 credits are required to earn your High School Diploma.
Penn Foster Career School Grading System
In Penn Foster Career Programs, you’ll complete lessons, take exams, and submit assignments for grading. An overall average of 65% is required to graduate from most programs, but some career programs may have different requirements. For example, in the Pharmacy Technician Program, students must have a cumulative average of at least 70% to graduate.
| Lesson Grade (%) | Letter Equivalent | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 90-100 | A | Excellent |
| 80-89 | B | Good |
| 70-79 | C | Average |
| 65-69 | D | Passing |
| Below 65 | F | Failing |
An overall program average of 65%, or above, is required to graduate and earn your diploma or certificate.
Penn Foster College Grading System
Penn Foster College uses a number-letter grading system: number grades are given for exams, and letter grades for completed courses. A course grade is based two-thirds on the average of lesson exam scores and one-third on the proctored exam (if required). Letter grades are then converted to grade points—ranging from 4.0 for an A to 0.0 for an F—to calculate both semester and cumulative GPAs.
| Lesson Grade (%) | Letter Equivalent | Rating | Grade Point Avg. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90-100 | A | Excellent | 4.0 |
| 80-89 | B | Good | 3.0 |
| 70-79 | C | Average | 2.0 |
| Below 70 | F | Failing | 0.0 |
* You must successfully pass all courses and meet any other requirements, such as externship hours, to graduate from a degree program.
Frequently Asked Questions about Academics at Penn Foster
Have more questions about how Penn Foster works? You can find answers for frequently asked questions about academics, tuition, enrollment, and more!
