BECE Grade Boundaries
Each score you achieve in an exam is converted to a letter grade using these boundaries.
| Grade | Score Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 90–100% | Excellent |
| B2 | 80–89% | Very Good |
| B3 | 75–79% | Good |
| C4 | 65–74% | Credit |
| C5 | 55–64% | Credit |
| C6 | 50–54% | Credit |
| D7 | 40–49% | Pass |
| E8 | 30–39% | Weak Pass |
| F9 | 0–29% | Fail |
How Your Aggregate is Calculated
Your aggregate score determines which Senior High School you qualify for. Here is how it works, step by step.
1
Sit all your BECE subjects
You write 4 core subjects plus at least 2 electives — that is a minimum of 6 subjects in total.
2
Each grade earns a point value
A1 = 1 point · B2 = 2 · B3 = 3 · C4 = 4 · C5 = 5 · C6 = 6 · D7 = 7 · E8 = 8 · F9 = 9
3
Your aggregate = the sum of your best 6 subjects
Add together the point values for your six highest-performing subjects. The 4 core subjects are always included.
4
Lower is better
The minimum possible aggregate is 6 (all A1s). The maximum is 54 (all F9s). A lower number means you qualify for more competitive schools.
Worked Example
English Language B2 = 2 points
Mathematics A1 = 1 point
Integrated Science B3 = 3 points
Social Studies C4 = 4 points
French B2 = 2 points
ICT C5 = 5 points
Mathematics A1 = 1 point
Integrated Science B3 = 3 points
Social Studies C4 = 4 points
French B2 = 2 points
ICT C5 = 5 points
Aggregate = 2 + 1 + 3 + 4 + 2 + 5 = 17
Aggregate Ranges & SHS Placement
Use this as a rough guide. The exact cut-offs vary by year and school, so always check the CSSPS portal for current requirements.
6–9
Highly competitive Category A schools
PRESEC, Achimota, Wesley Girls', Adisadel, Opoku Ware, Mfantsipim and similar flagship schools
10–15
Most Category A schools and strong Category B schools
Wide access to competitive science, business, and general arts programmes nationwide
16–24
Category B and C schools
A wide range of programmes available; good options in most regions of Ghana
25–36
Category C schools and community schools
You meet the minimum requirement for SHS admission (aggregate 36 or below)
37+
May need to consider alternative pathways
Consider technical/vocational education, TVET schools, or retaking relevant subjects
Which Subjects Count?
Not all subjects carry equal weight in the placement process.
Your aggregate always includes your 4 core subjects plus your best 2 electives. For science programmes at SHS, the core subjects — especially Mathematics and Integrated Science — carry additional weight in shortlisting.
Core subjects (always counted)
English Language
Mathematics
Integrated Science
Social Studies
Electives (best 2 counted)
French / Arabic / Religious Studies
ICT
Vocational Skills
Other approved electives
Tips to Improve Your Aggregate
Small improvements in your weakest subjects make the biggest difference.
1
Focus on your worst subject first
One grade improvement — say from C5 to C4 — removes one full point from your aggregate. The weaker the subject, the bigger the gain.
2
Don't neglect your electives
Your best 2 electives count directly toward your aggregate. A strong elective result can offset a weaker core performance.
3
Aim for C6 minimum in every subject
Get every subject to at least a C6 before trying to push the strong ones higher. Failing a single subject can disqualify you from SHS entirely.
4
Use past papers under exam conditions
Timed past-paper practice is the single most effective preparation strategy. It builds speed, exposes gaps, and reduces exam-day anxiety.