What is the difference between the Swedish and Luxembourgish grading system?
Sweden and Luxembourg have two very different grading systems. In Sweden, a scale from A to F is used, while Luxembourg has a points-based system where performance is mainly measured through test results. But how do these differences affect students’ learning, stress, motivation, and future plans?
- In Luxembourg, it is harder to graduate and requires more effort, says Max and Louis, two of the Luxembourgish students.
In Sweden, we use a grading system that goes from A to F. An F means you fail, and E is the lowest grade you need to pass. The grades D, C, B, and A show higher levels of performance, and A is the best grade you can get.
The Luxemburgish grading system generally works from 0-60. 30/60 is the lowest passing grade, only one point less and you fail. Anything around 40 is considered good and around 50, great.
Tests are composed of exercises that are allotted a certain number of points, except for writing, the general rule is that two points are taken away per mistake you make. How well you do on a test is largely based on how well you know the subject matter, testing your memory more than your actual understanding of the subject at hand. You take one to three tests each trimester, the grade you get is the average of all your tests. If you fail in a subject, you can either “compensate” your grade with another subject, but only if you have over 36/60 in the subject that you want to compensate with. If you can´t compensate, you need to take an exam during the summer break. If you fail that one, you redo the year.
The system is based on what students know and can do. This means you are graded based on how well you meet certain goals in each subject, not by comparing you to other students. For example, to get an E, you need to reach the basic level. To get higher grades like C or A, you need to show a better understanding and more advanced skills. Each subject is divided into courses, and you get a final grade for each course. These grades are then turned into numbers so you can calculate an average. The scale looks like this: F = 0, E = 10, D = 12.5, C = 15, B = 17.5, and A = 20. Some subjects are more important than others, and if you fail them, you cannot graduate. You must pass Swedish, English, and Mathematics. In general, you can still fail up to two courses and graduate.
To get your average grade, you add all your points and divide by the number of courses you have taken. This gives you a final score, which is used when you apply to universities.
How do you think the Swedish and Luxembourgish grading system affects students’ motivation and stress levels?
Anton, Swedish student: I think the grading system can feel a bit like two different worlds. Once you get a grade, it can be quite hard to raise it to a higher level, and that can create stress. But at the same time, it’s also kind of good, because it’s harder for your grade to drop as well.
Louis and Max, Luxembourgish students: Mostly, you get gradually more stress. About 30% of the last year counts toward your final mark. Motivation often goes down, even if you study a lot. Studying 200 pages creates a very high level of stress.
What role do final grades play in Sweden and Luxembourg when applying to universities or jobs?
Anton: Final grades are very important when applying to universities. They usually select students with the highest grade and exclude those with lower ones. For example, programs like medicine or engineering are very competitive because a lot more people apply than there are spots available.
Louis and Max: Basically, whether you get your diploma or not, you still have to take the final test. Grades don’t matter as much afterward; it depends on which university you apply to. There are bigger opportunities if you choose to continue for another year.
Are there any specific requirements in the Swedish and Luxembourgish education system that makes it easier or harder to graduate?
Anton: I would say it’s harder because you can’t fail more than two or three subjects. If you do, it can affect your ability to graduate.
What is the difference between the Swedish and Luxembourgish grading system?
Max and Louis: Our generation is not getting along very well, and newer generations are even worse. Some kids can barely communicate properly. You mostly must manage on your own, you can get some help, but not much.
How do you think the Swedish and Luxembourgish grading system prepares students for studying or working internationally?
Anton: I’m not completely sure, but we do learn English, which is very useful for international jobs or studying abroad. We also learn about the EU and its parliament, which can help if someone wants to work in that area in the future.
Max and Louis: In Luxembourg, it is harder to graduate and requires more effort. However, it offers better international opportunities and more languages. This is necessary because there is only one university in the country, although it is very good. The system is stricter, and teachers care more. There is more discipline. If you don’t come to school, it becomes your problem. If you need extra help, you have to invest more effort yourself.