find your perfect postgrad program
Search our Database of 30,000 Courses

Refine courses

Posted Dec. 24, 2025

Masters distinction vs merit: decoding UK grading and what it means for your CV

Did you know how masters degrees are graded is actually unique to the UK? Yes, the distinction, merit, pass and fail structure used to grade masters students is only used in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and UK affiliated universities overseas. Most other countries use alternative systems, such as grade point average (GPA), numeric scales and percentage scores.

While separated by just 1%, the difference achieving a distinction and a merit at masters level can make can be vast. Read on to discover the true distinction between these two masters grades, including what they mean for you going forward.

What is a distinction?

A distinction is the highest award you can get at masters level, with an overall score of 70% or more needed to secure the accolade. A distinction is generally reserved for outstanding performance, with both module work and your dissertation needing to demonstrate analytical ability, critical thinking, independence and originality.

While how many masters students achieve a distinction varies from program-to-program and from university-to-university, between 5% and 25% of a class are expected to receive this award on average. Those that do are rewarded with better future job prospects, enhanced career progression and a sharper competitive edge. Graduates looking to pursue further study also gain an advantage as Uniresearchers details:

“This academic milestone highlights the excellent research and analytical skills and intellectual discipline of the candidate, which are the key skills and qualities needed for success in doctoral-level study. A distinction in dissertation is not only useful during admission but also in strengthening the academic profile of candidates specifically when they are applying for research fellowships and grants.”

How does a merit compare?

A merit may not be the best grade you can achieve at masters level, but it still demonstrates above average performance. It can only be attained via consistent hard work and competence, with a percentage score of between 60 and 69% typical boundaries for most UK universities.

The dream of studying a PhD is still possible too, with the majority of institutions accepting a merit for entry. You can increase your chances of application success by ensuring your research proposal and references are solid. With competitive PhD programs, a distinction-level dissertation – even if you didn’t achieve the same overall – will also help to secure your place.

What if I grade lower?

There are just two other grades when studying for a masters in the UK. The pass mark means you met the minimum learning outcomes, and is typically achieved with a 50 to 59% score. The dissertation itself must also achieve a 50% or above mark to be considered a pass overall.

Achieving a pass grade may not secure you a place on a PhD course but it’s still recognised as a postgraduate qualification that’ll enhance your career prospects, with employers valuing the skills and experiences it demonstrates.

For percentage scores that fall below the 50% mark, a fail will be applied. In this instance, no masters degree award is given but you may receive a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) or Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) if the necessary modules were completed successfully.

Tips for achieving a distinction

Understanding the UK grading system is a great start, and one that could help you gauge exactly what you need to achieve a distinction or merit at masters level. Working on your critical thinking skills could also help. Having the means and the confidence to go beyond the description is the key, with evaluation, comparisons and argumentation across various theories and sources what’s needed to impress.

With your dissertation accounting for between 33% and 50% of your overall grade, getting started early is another step in the right direction. Choose your topic, dig deeper into the subject matter, research and use high impact sources, and work on showing originality to get closer to that distinction. Whether working on your dissertation or the various modules that make up a masters degree, treating feedback like your roadmap will help you progress to new heights.

Still not found the perfect masters course for you? Start your search today at Postgrad!

Related articles

Masters Degree Grades

How are masters degrees graded in the UK?

What is GPA and how do UK university grades convert?

 

Leave a comment

All contributors must be over 16 year olds

By submitting your comment you agree to our privacy policy.

Categories