A CGPA of 2.80 on the 5.0 scale is a Second Class Lower (2:2). You are 0.70 points short of Second Class Upper (2:1), which starts at 3.50.
Where 2.80 sits on the 5.0 scale
| Class | CGPA |
|---|---|
| First Class | 4.50 to 5.00 |
| Second Class Upper (2:1) | 3.50 to 4.49 |
| Second Class Lower (2:2) | 2.40 to 3.49 |
| Third Class | 1.50 to 2.39 |
| Pass | 1.00 to 1.49 |
| Below pass mark | 0.00 to 0.99 |
Your CGPA would fall to Third Class if it dropped below 2.40.
What grades give a 2.80 CGPA
A CGPA of 2.80 sits between grade D (2 points) and grade C (3 points). For example, about 80% of your credit units at C and 20% at D gives this figure.
| Grade | Score | Points |
|---|---|---|
| A | 70 to 100 | 5 |
| B | 60 to 69 | 4 |
| C | 50 to 59 | 3 |
| D | 45 to 49 | 2 |
| E | 40 to 44 | 1 |
| F | 0 to 39 | 0 |
What you need to reach Second Class Upper (2:1)
The average grade point you must score in your remaining courses depends on how many credit units are left. The table assumes a programme of 120 credit units; yours may be longer, so use the class of degree calculator with your real numbers.
| Where you are | Average needed to reach Second Class Upper (2:1) |
|---|---|
| 60 units done, 60 to go | 4.20 average |
| 80 units done, 40 to go | 4.90 average |
| 100 units done, 20 to go | Not possible |
| 110 units done, 10 to go | Not possible |
The later you are in your programme, the harder it is to move the average, because most of your units are already counted.
Why the same number means a different class on the 4.0 scale
The two scales do not convert one to one. On the 4.0 scale an A is worth 4 points, and the class limits are different:
| Class | CGPA on the 4.0 scale |
|---|---|
| First Class | 3.50 to 4.00 |
| Second Class Upper (2:1) | 3.00 to 3.49 |
| Second Class Lower (2:2) | 2.00 to 2.99 |
| Third Class | 1.00 to 1.99 |
| Below pass mark | 0.00 to 0.99 |
If a form or school asks for your CGPA on a scale you did not study on, give the class of degree as well as the number, and ask the school how they convert it.
What this class means for applications
Many postgraduate programmes in Nigeria accept a Second Class Lower for a master’s degree, but some graduate programmes and scholarships ask for a Second Class Upper. Experience, certificates, a strong CV and interview preparation can make up the difference.
Requirements differ by employer and school, so check the advert before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
What class is 2.80 CGPA on the 5.0 scale?
2.80 is a Second Class Lower (2:2) on the 5.0 scale. The limits for this class are 2.40 to 3.49.
Is 2.80 a good CGPA?
It is a respectable result and accepted for many postgraduate programmes, but some employers and scholarships ask for a Second Class Upper.
How can I raise my CGPA from 2.80 to 3.50?
Score a higher average grade point in your remaining courses. The earlier you start, the more effect each course has. Use the class of degree calculator to see the average you need.
Related CGPA pages
Free tools you may need
CGPA Calculator
Work out your GPA and CGPA on the 5.0 or 4.0 scale. Add courses by semester, with grade or score.
Class of Degree Calculator
See your class of degree from your CGPA and find what you need in your remaining units to reach First Class or 2:1.
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