Understanding marking criteria

All of your assessments will be marked using specific marking criteria, sometimes referred to as assessment criteria. Marking criteria ensure that work is assessed in a fair, reliable, and consistent manner.

Marking criteria are usually presented in a table format, with written descriptions of the standards expected at each grading band. 

Marking criteria are really important for both staff and students. They ensure that staff have a formal framework against which to assess work, and they ensure that work is assessed in a fair, reliable and consistent manner.

You may find it helpful to:

• Consult your marking criteria at the start of your course or module, to gain an overview of what is expected.
• Consult your marking criteria before you begin an assignment, to help you prepare and plan. 
• Read your marking criteria before you submit an assignment, to check that you have met certain requirements.

• Most marking criteria are categorised using numerical marks and the corresponding classification. 
• Gaining 'full marks' is extremely rare at university. This may be different to the marking systems you have been used to previously.
• Speak to your tutors and lecturers about the marking criteria, especially if there are any terms or aspects of the criteria you are unsure about it.