School grading systems

Pastor S. on July 18 told his congregation that a university teacher had told his students: "I never give 10 as the highest mark, because it is reserved for God, nine is for my wife, so the highest mark I give you is eight." I personally don't know whether this was meant as a joke, but it's certainly not funny if his intention was literal, as it will cause misery for students who want to study abroad.

However, a student of civil engineering in Bandung has personal experience of this grading system. The student wished to obtain a master's degree for business administration (MBA) at a prestigious university in the United States. Having completed the General Matriculation Admission Test (GMAT), he was asked to show his high school and university progress reports.

Although he was a brilliant student his highest mark was eight. The student was compelled to request written affirmation from the university in Bandung to the effect that he was indeed an outstanding student and entitled to the highest mark on his school record. It was the school policy to give an eight, instead of 10 as the highest mark. Some people may consider the matter insignificant. But for a student who wishes to study abroad there is very stiff competition.

I was told that this year not less than 8,000 students are vying for admission into one of the U.S. accredited schools. It is a matter of supply and demand, and a score of eight is considered insufficient to meet the criteria.

A. DJUANA

Jakarta