University of New South Wales
UNSW WAM Calculator
UNSW calculates WAM from your actual percentage marks, but grade-only results use nominal values rather than being excluded.¹
Formula
WAM = Σ(mark × UOC) ÷ Σ(UOC)
Worked example
| Course | Mark | UOC | Mark × UOC |
|---|---|---|---|
| COMP1511 | 78 | 6 | 468 |
| COMP2521 | 84 | 6 | 504 |
| COMP3900 | 71 | 6 | 426 |
| Total | 18 | 1398 | |
WAM = 1398 ÷ 18 = 77.67
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Inclusions and exclusions
What counts in your UNSW WAM
| Status | Detail |
|---|---|
| Included | All courses with a numeric mark (pass and fail) |
| Included | Withdrawn Fail (WF) results |
| Included | Grade-only results using nominal values (see table below) |
| Excluded | Satisfied/Fail (SY/FL) grading basis with no numeric mark |
| Excluded | Transfer credit from another institution |
| Note | Transfer credit from UNSW in a different program is included from Semester 1 2016 onwards |
| Note | Each Faculty calculates a separate Faculty WAM for honours, distinct from your overall WAM |
Nominal values for grade-only results
| Grade | Description | Nominal value used in WAM |
|---|---|---|
| HD | High Distinction (no mark) | 90 |
| DN | Distinction (no mark) | 80 |
| FL | Fail (no mark) | 25 |
Honours thresholds
UNSW Honours WAM requirements
Overall WAM thresholds shown. Faculty WAM calculations may differ. Always verify with your faculty for honours eligibility.
| WAM | Honours level | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| 80+ | H1 | First Class (varies by faculty) |
| 75–79 | H2A | Second Class, Division A |
| 70–74 | H2B | Second Class, Division B |
FAQ
Common questions
How does UNSW handle grade-only results in WAM?
UNSW assigns nominal percentage values to grade-only results for WAM purposes: DN (Distinction, no mark) uses 80, HD (High Distinction, no mark) uses 90, and FL (Fail, no mark) uses 25. These nominal values are included in the weighted average. Courses on a Satisfied/Fail grading basis with no numeric mark are excluded.
Does a Withdrawn Fail affect my UNSW WAM?
Yes. A Withdrawn Fail (WF) is included in your UNSW WAM calculation. Only withdrawing before the census date (which results in no academic record) avoids any WAM impact. A WF is treated as a failed result in the weighted average.
What is the difference between my overall WAM and my Faculty WAM at UNSW?
Your overall WAM at UNSW includes all eligible courses across your degree. Your Faculty WAM is a separate calculation used specifically for honours eligibility, based only on courses within your faculty. Each Faculty defines its own WAM calculation rules, so your Faculty WAM may differ from your overall WAM. Always check with your faculty for honours requirements.
Sources
Studying at a different university? Use our Australian WAM calculator.