Is a D a Passing Grade?
Yes, a D (60% to 69%) is technically a passing grade in most high schools and undergraduate colleges, but it earns only 1.0 GPA points.
While a D earns credit toward general graduation requirements, it is considered below average and frequently fails to satisfy major prerequisites or transfer credit requirements.
How This Is Calculated
The D grade interval spans from 60.0% (or 60.0% D-) to 69.9% (D+). Because it is greater than or equal to 60.0%, it is above the failing cutoff of 0.0 to 59.9% (F).
Earning a D has several practical consequences. While you receive credit hours on your transcript, your cumulative GPA will be pulled down toward 1.0. If your overall GPA dips below a 2.0 (C average), you may be placed on academic probation.
Additionally, almost all colleges require at least a C (2.0) or C- (1.7) for courses in your major or for credits to successfully transfer to another university.
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Grade Comparison & Reference Table
| Scenario | Is D Passing / Accepted? | Transcript Consequence | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| High School Elective | Yes | Earns high school diploma credit | Proceed to next course |
| High School Core (A-G / Honors) | Conditional | May not meet 4-year college admissions | Consider credit recovery or retake |
| College General Elective | Yes | Earns course credits (1.0 GPA) | Ensure cumulative GPA stays ≥ 2.0 |
| College Major Prerequisite | No / Warning | Cannot advance to next sequential class | Retake course for grade replacement |
| Transfer to Another College | No | Most universities only transfer C or above | Repeat class before transferring |
GPA Calculator
Check how a D grade affects your cumulative and semester GPA on a 4.0 scale.
Related Grade Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a D count toward high school graduation?
Yes, in standard US public school districts, a D grade earns credit toward your high school diploma, though college admissions offices (like UC or CSU) require a C or higher.
What happens if I get a D in my college major?
Most degree programs require a minimum grade of C (2.0) in core major courses, meaning you will likely have to retake the class to graduate.