This is a summary guide only. The formal regulations for the individual programmes and overall univeristy regulations take precendence over this guide. Assessment at Heriot-Watt is based on the CAPS (Common Assessment and Progression System). In CAPS your exam result for each course will be presented in the form of a letter grade (A – F) where
| Grade | A | B | C | D |
| Approx. Mark | 70%-100% | 60%-69% | 50%-59% | 40%-49% |
The final mark for each course will consist of continuous assessment or hand-in work (from 0% to 100% of the total) with a formal exam making up any remainder.
MSc resits are normally held the next time the exam is held. That will usually be one year later. Resitting should be considered as a last resort. Students will not normally be allowed to carry out the project part of the MSc if they have not satisfied the requirements on the taught courses
Pass and Distinction in the MSc
Normally, to pass the MSc you need:
- 50% average mark on your 8 taught courses most courses at grade C or better
- none less than grade D
- dissertation at grade C or better
Normally, to gain a distinction in the MSc course you need:
- 70% average mark on your 8 taught courses most courses at grade A
- none less than grade C
- dissertation at grade A
Pass and Distinction in the Diploma
Normally, to pass the Diploma course you need:
- 40% average mark on your 8 taught courses
- most courses at grade D or better
- none less than grade E
Normally, to gain a distinction in the Diploma course you need:
- 70% average mark on your 8 taught courses
- most courses at grade A
- none less than grade C
To pass the Certificate course you need:
- 40% average mark on 4 taught courses
- most courses at grade D or better
- none less than grade E