What Is 60% in UK University Grades? Nigerian Student Guide

Introduction: Why Nigerian Students Get Confused About UK Grading 

If you’re a Nigerian student planning to study in the UK, you’ve probably wondered, “Why do UK students celebrate 60%?” In Nigeria, 60% is usually a “B” decent but not outstanding. However, in the UK grading system, 60% is an excellent score, equivalent to an Upper Second-Class Honour (2:1). 

This guide breaks down what 60% really means in UK universities, how it compares to Nigeria’s system, and why it’s good enough to qualify you for top scholarships, postgraduate studies, and even NHS or Skilled Worker job opportunities. 

Understanding UK University Grading: The Basics 

Unlike the Nigerian system (A–F or 5-point GPA), UK universities classify degrees into Honours categories. Here’s how it works: 

👉 So, 60% in the UK = Second Class Upper (2:1), a grade most Nigerian employers, universities, and scholarship bodies consider very good. 

Why 60% in the UK Grading Is Considered Very Good 

The UK grading system focuses on critical thinking, research, and independent analysis, not rote memorisation. 

That’s why scoring even 60% requires: 

• Deep understanding of your subject. 
• Strong essay and referencing skills. 
• Analytical reasoning instead of memorised facts. 

In short, a 60% in the UK is not an average grade; it reflects consistent effort and academic maturity. 

📌 Example 

In Nigeria, a student scoring 60% might be “good.” But in the UK, that same mark can put you in the top 25% of your class. 

How 60% Translates into Nigerian GPA and Merit Grades 

If you’re trying to understand the GPA or merit equivalent of 60% in the UK, here’s a rough comparison: 

So, 60% in the UK = Merit (for postgraduate) or Upper Second (for undergraduate), both well-respected results. 

Scholarships and Job Eligibility with a 60% UK Grade 

🎓 Scholarships 

Many UK and Nigerian-funded scholarships accept applicants with a minimum of 2:1 (60%). Examples include: 

• Chevening Scholarship 
• Commonwealth Shared Scholarship 
• University of Manchester Global Futures Scholarship 

If you graduate with 60% or above, you’ll meet the academic criteria for most international postgraduate funding opportunities. 

💼 Jobs and Visa Opportunities 

With a 2:1 or Merit (60%+): 

• You’re eligible for the UK Graduate Route Visa (Post-Study Work). 
• You can apply for NHS roles or Skilled Worker visas in health, social care, and public administration. 
• Many UK employers (and even Nigerian companies like KPMG or Shell) list 2:1 as the minimum entry grade. 

💡 Tip: If your degree is 60% or higher, you stand out in job applications — both in the UK and when you return to Nigeria. 

Nigerian vs UK Grading Mindset: Why 60% Feels Different 

In Nigeria: 

• 70% = Excellent (A) 
• 60% = Good (B) 
• 50% = Average (C) 

In the UK: 

• 70% = Outstanding (rare, for top researchers) 
• 60% = Very Good (above average) 
• 50% = Satisfactory 

So don’t be discouraged if your grades are in the 60s; that’s actually a strong performance by UK standards. 

💰 Example Tuition & Living Costs (2025) 

Expense 

Cost (in £) 

Approx. ₦ (at ₦1,900/£) 

Tuition (per year) 

£9,000–£15,000 

₦17–₦28.5 million 

Accommodation 

£4,000–£7,000 

₦7.6–₦13.3 million 

Living costs 

£10,000 

₦19 million 

Visa + NHS Fee 

£1,200 

₦2.3 million 

🎯 Why it matters: Since studying in the UK is expensive, understanding how grading works helps you aim for scholarships that often require 60%+ results. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

1. Is 60% a good grade in UK universities? 

Yes! In the UK, 60% equals a 2:1 (Upper Second-Class Honours), a strong grade that qualifies for scholarships, postgraduate studies, and job opportunities. 

2. What GPA is 60% in the UK equal to in Nigeria? 

Roughly equivalent to a 3.5–4.4 GPA, similar to a Second Class Upper in Nigeria. 

3. Can Nigerian students study in the UK without IELTS? 

Some universities accept WAEC English (C6 and above) as proof of English proficiency, but it depends on the course and school. Always check each university’s requirements on the UK Government Study Visa page or UCAS. 

Conclusion: 60% = Success for Nigerian Students in the UK 

So, what is 60% in UK university grades? For Nigerian students, it’s a very good result, equal to a 2:1 or Merit, and a strong foundation for postgraduate study, scholarship applications, or career growth in the UK and Nigeria alike. 

Please don’t underestimate your 60% it could open doors to Chevening Scholarships, NHS jobs, and Skilled Worker visas. 

👉 Contact Anglo Healthcare for expert guidance on UK university admission, visa processing, and scholarship support today.