In Belgium, schools and universities use a scale from 0 to 20. Converting percentages to this scale is simple: you divide the percentage by 5. Here we explain how it works.
The basic formula is simple: grade = percentage / 5. This gives the following scale:
- 100% = 20/20 (exceptional, almost never given)
- 90% = 18/20 (excellent)
- 80% = 16/20 (great distinction)
- 70% = 14/20 (distinction)
- 60% = 12/20 (satisfaction)
- 50% = 10/20 (sufficient, passed)
- 40% = 8/20 (insufficient)
- 30% = 6/20 (insufficient)
- 20% = 4/20 (weak)
- 10% = 2/20 (very weak)
In Belgium, 10/20 (50%) is the passing threshold. Grades above 16/20 are rare and above 18/20 are very exceptional.
To convert a percentage to a grade out of 20:
Grade = Percentage / 5
Example: You score 75% on a test. Your grade is: 75 / 5 = 15/20 (distinction)
In Belgium, the passing threshold is at 50%, which corresponds to 10/20. This is different from the Netherlands where 55% is often required.
If you score 48%, you get 9.6/20 which rounds to 10/20 - but note: some teachers only round at the final grade.
Tip: Always ask your teacher how rounding works. This can vary by subject or school.
Schools may apply small variations:
- Some schools give half points (e.g., 13.5/20)
- Other schools always round to whole numbers
- Different rules may apply to exams than to daily tests
Want to calculate your average based on multiple grades? Use our calculator to quickly determine your weighted average.