Regulating student awards
How we monitor the award of degrees
We monitor and analyse changes in the proportion of first and upper second class degrees awarded over time, using data we receive from universities and colleges.
Our latest report (November 2025) found that the proportion of students awarded 1sts and 2:1 degrees has reduced in recent years, although levels remain above those awarded in 2010-11.
Where these changes cannot be accounted for – for example, by factors like changes in the student population – we describe these changes as ‘unexplained’ in our analysis. We use statistical modelling to assess to what extend the changes can be accounted for by changes in the graduate population such as their prior attainment or what they are studying.
As a risk-based regulator, we use analysis like this to help inform where we should focus our activities to ensure that students receive the high quality education and credible qualifications they expect.
- Analysis of degree classifications over time: Changes in graduate attainment from 2010-11 to 2022-23 (September 2024)
- Analysis of degree classifications over time: Changes in graduate attainment from 2010-11 to 2021-22 (July 2023)
- Analysis of degree classifications over time: Changes in graduate attainment from 2010-11 to 2020-21 (May 2022)
- Analysis of degree classifications over time: Changes in graduate attainment from 2010-11 to 2018-19 (November 2020)
- Analysis of degree classifications over time: Changes in graduate attainment from 2010-11 to 2017-18 (July 2019)
- Analysis of degree classifications over time: Changes in graduate attainment from 2010-11 to 2016-17 (December 2018)
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