University Grading System in Malaysia: GPA, CGPA & What They Mean

If you’re planning to study in Malaysia, understanding the Malaysia university grading system is essential, especially how GPA and CGPA in Malaysia are calculated. The good news for international students is that Malaysia follows a 4.0 GPA scale, similar to the US system, making grade conversion and academic progression easier to understand.

At Malaysian universities, your final results are based on a combination of coursework, examinations, and continuous assessments, such as class participation and attendance. This CGPA grading system in Malaysia is used to measure your overall academic performance and plays a key role in graduation requirements, scholarships, and postgraduate admissions.

In this guide, you’ll learn how the Malaysian CGPA and GPA system works, what each university grade means, and how to calculate your CGPA — so you can better plan your studies and future career.

How the University Grading System in Malaysia Works?

The university grading system in Malaysia is used to assess students based on coursework, exams, and continuous assessments. Most universities follow a 4.0 grading scale, using letter grades (A to F) that are converted into GPA and CGPA.

Malaysia’s university grading system typically follows a letter grade format combined with a GPA (Grade Point Average) or CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average). Most universities use a 4.0 grading scale, where each letter grade corresponds to a specific grade point. 

For example, a student scoring 80% might receive an A (4.00), while one with 67% would get a B (3.00). This grading structure ensures consistent evaluation across subjects and semesters, using these grade points to calculate GPA and CGPA, which reflect overall academic performance.

Below is a typical grading scale used by Malaysian universities.

Top University Grading Systems in Malaysia

1. Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)

2. Monash University Malaysia

3. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)

4. Sunway University

5. University of Malaya (UM)

What is GPA and How is It Calculated in Malaysia?

GPA in Malaysia (Grade Point Average) measures your academic performance for a specific semester. Most Malaysian universities use a 4.0 GPA scale, where each letter grade is assigned a corresponding grade point. This is part of the broader Malaysia university grading system and contributes to your CGPA (Cumulative GPA).

How to Calculate Your GPA in Malaysia

To calculate your GPA:

1. Multiply the grade points of each course by its credit hours.
2. Add all the resulting grade points together.
3. Divide the total by the sum of credit hours you have taken.

Formula:

GPA = Total Credit Hours 
           Total Grade Points
​
Example of Common GPA Scale (4.0):

• A (4.00 points) = Excellent
• B+ (3.33 points) = Good
• C (2.00 points) = Satisfactory
• D (1.00 point) = Passing
• F (0.00 points) = Fail

What is CGPA and How Does It Differ from GPA?

CGPA  is the overall measure of your academic performance across all semesters, while GPA reflects your performance for a single semester.

GPA is calculated for just one semester's courses.
CGPA takes into account your grades from all completed semesters, offering a broader view of your academic progress.

How is CGPA Calculated in Malaysia?

CGPA is calculated similarly to GPA but includes the grade points and credit hours from all semesters. The formula is:

CGPA =  Total Credit Hours Across All Semesters
               Total Grade Points Across All Semesters
​

In short, CGPA shows your cumulative academic performance throughout your degree program, while GPA tracks your progress in individual terms.

What is a Passing Grade in Malaysian Universities?

In most Malaysian universities, the minimum passing grade is typically set at 40% to 50%, depending on the institution and specific course requirements. This means that students need to achieve at least this percentage to pass a course.

Example Courses:

Business Management
Passing Grade: 40%
Students scoring below 40% may need to retake the course or take a supplementary exam.

Engineering 
Passing Grade: 50%
A score below 50% typically requires a retake, as this knowledge is essential for progressing in engineering programs.

Information Technology IT
Passing Grade: 45%
If you score below 45%, you might be given the option to take a supplementary exam to improve your grade.

Hotel Management & Hospitality
Passing Grade: 50%
Students with a grade below 50% will generally need to retake the course to fulfill their degree requirements.

Retaking Courses and Supplementary Exams

If you receive a grade below the passing mark—usually a D or F—you may be required to retake the course or take a supplementary exam to improve your grade.

• D (Marginal Pass): Some universities may allow students with a D to proceed, but it often comes with a warning to improve in future assessments.
• F (Fail): Students with an F will typically need to retake the course to meet graduation requirements.

Furthermore, constructive feedback provides not only recognition but also suggestions for improvement. It guides students on refining their study habits and addresses topics that may require additional attention.

5 Reasons Why Your GPA and CGPA Matter 

Maintaining a strong GPA (Grade Point Average) or CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average) is important in shaping your academic and career path. But how? Let’s find out!

1. Scholarship Opportunities: Many scholarship programs set a minimum GPA requirement. A higher GPA not only qualifies you but also makes you a more competitive candidate for merit-based awards. For more details, check out our guide on scholarships and financial aids in Malaysia.

2. Internship Selection: Companies often consider your GPA during the internship application process. A strong GPA demonstrates your commitment and ability to thrive in a challenging academic environment, making you a more attractive candidate.

3. Job Prospects: Employers frequently use GPA as a benchmark to evaluate candidates, especially for entry-level positions. A solid GPA can serve as ab indicator in determining your performance in  future job prospects.

4. Networking Opportunities: Excelling academically can lead to valuable networking opportunities with professors and industry professionals, potentially opening doors to job offers or recommendations.

5. Postgraduate Admissions: If you’re thinking about further studies, most postgraduate programs in Malaysia have specific GPA requirements. Many universities look for a minimum CGPA of 3.0 or higher. More competitive fields may demand even higher scores! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is a good GPA in Malaysia?

A good GPA in Malaysia is usually between 3.0 and 4.0, with 4.0 being the highest you can get. If I have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, it’s often seen as good enough for scholarships and job opportunities. Understanding the university grading system in Malaysia helps me set clear goals for my studies.

2. Can I improve my GPA or CGPA?

Yes, you can definitely improve my GPA or CGPA! By putting in consistent effort and using good study habits, you can make a difference. Seeking help from professors and staying organized can really help you do better.

3. Do Malaysian universities accept international qualifications?

Yes, Malaysian universities typically recognize international qualifications. However, you may need to convert them to fit the Malaysian grading system or undergo an equivalency assessment to meet the university grading system in Malaysia.

4. What does a 3.5 CGPA mean in Malaysia?

A 3.5 CGPA in Malaysia generally indicates a First Class or Very Good academic performance, depending on your university’s grading policy. It reflects strong performance across semesters and can positively impact scholarship eligibility, postgraduate opportunities, and career prospects.

5. What is the passing GPA in Malaysian universities?

In Malaysia, most universities require a minimum 2.0 GPA per semester to pass courses, and a CGPA of at least 2.0 to graduate. Maintaining this GPA ensures you meet graduation requirements and qualifies you for further studies, scholarships, and employment.

Wrap Up

To wrap it up, I want to say that understanding the university grading system in Malaysia is key to your success in Malaysian universities.

A good GPA can help you earn scholarships, land internships, and gain admission to further studies, while knowing the Malaysian grading system helps you set clear goals.

If you’re an international student looking to study in Malaysia, we’re here to guide you through the process. 

Talk to our advisors and they will help you with any questions you have.