Subjects taught in English by American faculty are graded on a basis of А, В, С, D and F.
Hardly ever is the grade in an American semester course graded solely on the basis of a final exam. Typically, the composite grade for a semester course depends upon some elements or “grading devices”. Some elements are more heavily weighted in some subjects and by some professors than in other subjects and by other professors. American professors announce the approximate weighting (X%) or importance of each element at the beginning of the class in the semester course syllabus. These elements include: homework problems, class participation (including attendance), quizzes, papers, compositions, major term paper, oral reports, group projects, tests during the semester and final exam.

The grade in a semester course is thereby a “process” rather than an outcome, measured by a final examination. American instructors design their teaching around the expectation that students will be in class and are themselves committed to extensive preparation for the lecture. Grading of homework and quizzes as well as at least one major examination and the final examination are considered in the grade for the course.

The system of grading is more extensive than just the final examination. Students who fail the semester course in the American system are required to take the whole course over again in another semester. Retaking the final exam is not possible for the American Style Degree. American instructors offer a forecast of the student’s expected grade by midway through the semester so that in consultation with teachers, administration and parents, students may make appropriate adjustments to do better by the end of the semester.

To improve the grade in a course in which he/she is not doing well at mid-semester, the student may do several things. He/she may simply become more disciplined and devote more time to the subject. If he has been missing class, he should not miss. He/she should read the relevant parts of the textbook. He/she may consult with the American faculty during office hours. In some cases a student in consultation with the instructor and the parent may decide to “withdraw” from a class and take it another semester. For student whose English is currently weak, who are working, or otherwise overloaded this may be the best approach.

Students who fail or withdraw from a course must take it over again. They may do this the next year, in a summer session or as independent study. In the case of failure or withdrawal the student will be required to pay additional tuition. Very frequent failure or withdrawal may result in extending the time of study. This normally means that the course of study would take more than 4 years.

A student seeking the American Style Degree may also be able to substitute an acceptable semester course when it is offered.