A New Grading System for Korea’s College Exam: What Will Change?
 

Many Korean students dream of going to university, and one big step toward that dream is the Suneung, or Korean College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT). Right now, this test uses a 9-grade system to rank students' scores. But soon, that will change.

The government is planning to change the CSAT grading system from 9 grades to 5 grades. What does this mean for future test-takers — and for younger students like middle schoolers who will face this system one day? Let’s explore.

What Is the Current 9-Grade System?

Under the current system, students who take the CSAT are given grades from 1 to 9 for each subject, based on their performance compared to other test-takers. For example, about the top 4% of students in a subject receive Grade 1, the next group gets Grade 2, and so on.

This grading system helps universities decide which students to accept. But it also creates a lot of pressure, because many students and parents aim for the very top grades.

What Will Change with the 5-Grade System?

In the new system, there will only be 5 grades instead of 9. The goal is to lower competition between small grade differences (for example, between Grade 2 and 3) and reduce stress for students.

Fewer grades mean that universities will focus more on students’ overall abilities and not just tiny score gaps. It also encourages students to focus on learning, not just on chasing perfect test scores.

Why Is This Change Happening?

Korean education officials believe that the current 9-grade system puts too much stress on students and parents. Even small differences in scores can lead to big differences in university admission chances.

With the 5-grade system, they hope students will feel less pressure and will develop a healthier attitude toward studying. It’s also part of a larger effort to make college admissions more balanced — considering other factors like student records, talents, and personal growth.

Concerns and Questions

Of course, some people are worried. Will universities be able to tell students apart clearly with fewer grades? Will it become harder to choose the right students?

Others wonder if this change alone can really reduce competition, since many students will still feel pressure to get the top grade. There is also concern that private education (hagwons) might adapt quickly to this new system and continue to drive intense competition.