PSHS Grading System

BySW Solutions Ltd

The Philippine Science High School (PSHS) system is known for its academic rigor and focus on science and math. That’s why their grading system is a bit different and tougher than most other high schools in the Philippines. If you’re a student (or a worried parent), understanding how PSHS computes grades with the help of a PSHS GWA calculator is essential to staying on track and aiming for academic excellence.

What is PSHS and Who Is It For?

The Philippine Science High School, also called “Pisay,” is a specialized public high school system under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). It’s designed for students gifted in science and mathematics.

But it’s not just about being smart; students here face advanced subjects, heavier workloads, and stricter grading standards than those in DepEd’s K-12 system.

PSHS Grading System

Why Does the Grading System Matter?

Because:

  • It determines scholarship retention (yes, PSHS offers full scholarships).
  • It affects promotion to the next level.
  • It helps identify honors and awards.
  • It prepares students for the academic standards of top universities.

Overview of the PSHS Grading System

General Grading Formula

PSHS uses a weighted average system, where each component (like performance tasks, written work, and exams) contributes a percentage to your grade, similar to how you might convert GWA to GPA for comparison.

Each subject may have its own breakdown, but the standard formula generally includes:

  • Performance Tasks
  • Written Works
  • Quarterly Exams

Core vs Non-core Subjects

  • Core Subjects: Math, Science, English, and heavier in weight.
  • Non-core: Filipino, Social Science, MAPEH, still important, but slightly less weight in GWA.

Grade Components in PSHS

Written Works

  • Quizzes, short tests, written assignments, or homework.

Performance Tasks

  • Includes lab work, experiments, presentations, reports, and projects.

Periodic Exams

  • Usually happens at the end of the quarter, and often makes up 30–40% of the grade.

Long-Term Projects (Upper Years)

  • In Grades 11 and 12, expect capstone projects, research papers, and prototypes.

Grade Weight Distribution

For Junior High School (Grades 7–10):

  • Written Work: 30%

  • Performance Tasks: 40%

  • Exams: 30%

For Senior High School (Grades 11–12):

  • Can vary by strand (STEM-heavy), but generally:

    • Performance Tasks: 50%

    • Written Works: 25%

    • Exams: 25%

Note: These weights may differ slightly by subject or school year, but the core format remains similar.

PSHS Grade Scale and Descriptors

PSHS doesn’t use the typical 1.00–5.00 college-style grading. Instead, grades are transmuted from raw scores.

Numerical Grade Descriptor Equivalent
95–100 Outstanding Top Honors Level
90–94 Very Satisfactory Above Average
85–89 Satisfactory Decent Pass
80–84 Fair Just Passed
75–79 Needs Improvement Borderline Fail
Below 75 Did Not Meet Expectations Fail

What is the Passing Grade?

The bare passing mark is 75%, but in PSHS, a “passing grade” doesn’t always mean you’re safe. If your GWA drops too low, you can still be put on academic probation. People can also check the Deped Grading system.

Transmuted Grades vs Raw Scores

In PSHS, raw scores (exams, quizzes) are converted using a transmutation table to fit a standard grade range. This levels the playing field when exams are too difficult or too easy.

Why Transmutation?

To:

  • Normalize results across sections

  • Reflect student effort fairly

  • Avoid grade inflation/deflation

General Weighted Average (GWA) in PSHS

GWA is the average of all your final grades, weighted by subject importance.

How GWA Is Computed

GWA = (Grade × Subject Weight) ÷ Total Units

Let’s say:

  • Math: 93 (weight 2)

  • English: 88 (weight 2)

  • Biology: 91 (weight 2)

  • Filipino: 85 (weight 1)

GWA = (93×2 + 88×2 + 91×2 + 85×1) ÷ 7 = 89.85

Promotion Rules and Academic Standing

Promotion

  • You must pass all subjects (at least 75%).

  • Maintain a minimum GWA (varies slightly each year).

Academic Probation

  • Happens if your GWA drops below the threshold or you fail in major subjects.

  • Probation is usually 1–2 quarters before dismissal is considered.

PSHS Honors and Academic Awards

Award Required GWA No Grade Below
With Highest Honors 98 and above 95
With High Honors 95–97.99 90
With Honors 90–94.99 85

How to Check Grades in PSHS

  • Student Portal Access: Grades are posted online.
  • Report Cards: Distributed quarterly or semesterly.
  • Parent-Teacher Conferences: Usually conducted twice per year.

The PSHS grading system isn’t built to break you; it’s built to bring out your best. It may be challenging, but it also prepares you for a lifetime of academic and professional success. Know the rules, play smart, and always aim for growth, not just grades.

Is 85 a good grade in PSHS?

Yes! 85 is considered “Satisfactory.” But in Pisay standards, that’s average. Most honor students aim for 90+.

Can you pass with a failing grade?

If it’s one minor subject, remedial may be allowed. Multiple failures = high risk of dismissal.

How is GWA used?

To determine:

Promotion
Eligibility for honors
Retention of your DOST scholarship

Tala - Author

Tala

Tala is an academic writer specializing in the Philippine grading system. She simplifies GWA, CWA, and GPA concepts using official DepEd and CHED references to help students track and improve their academic performance.

Similar Posts