ECTS Calculator
Learn about the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) and how it works in European universities.
What is ECTS?
The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is a standard for comparing the study attainment and performance of students across the European Union and other collaborating European countries. One ECTS credit represents 25-30 hours of work.
How ECTS Works
ECTS credits are based on the workload students need to complete to achieve the expected learning outcomes. Here's how it typically works:
- One academic year corresponds to 60 ECTS credits
- One semester typically equals 30 ECTS credits
- One ECTS credit represents 25-30 hours of work
- Credits are awarded only when the course is completed and all required examinations are passed
ECTS Grading Scale
| ECTS Grade | Definition | Percentage of Successful Students |
|---|---|---|
| A | Excellent | 10% |
| B | Very Good | 25% |
| C | Good | 30% |
| D | Satisfactory | 25% |
| E | Sufficient | 10% |
| FX | Fail - Some More Work Required | - |
| F | Fail - Considerable Further Work Required | - |
Example of ECTS Credit Distribution
A typical bachelor's degree program (3 years) would have:
- 180 ECTS credits in total
- 60 ECTS credits per year
- 30 ECTS credits per semester
- 5-10 ECTS credits per course (depending on workload)
ECTS and Study Abroad
ECTS makes it easier for students to study abroad and have their academic achievements recognized. When you study at a European university:
- Your home institution will recognize the credits you earned abroad
- You can transfer credits between institutions
- Your academic achievements are easily comparable across Europe
