The UK's educational grading system is diverse and multifaceted, encompassing a range of institutions and qualifications. It typically employs a letter-based grading scale, with A* (A-star) being the highest and U (ungraded) representing a fail. This system is commonly used for GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education) and A-levels (Advanced Level) examinations.
Quality in the UK education system is often evaluated through rigorous inspection and assessment processes. Institutions are subject to reviews by regulatory bodies like Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services, and Skills) and the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) to ensure they meet prescribed standards. Additionally, the reputation and ranking of universities and colleges play a significant role in assessing educational quality and impact on students' future prospects.