The eternal debate: "Do internals matter if I ace the final exam?"
Some students think they can slack off during the semester and pull a hero move in the finals. Let's look at the math to see why that is a dangerous gamble.
The Standard Split (40/60)
For most theory courses:
- Internal Marks: 40%
- External Marks: 60%
The Myth of "Catching Up"
Let's say you need 90 marks for an 'O' Grade.
- Student A (Consistent): Scores 35/40 in Internals. Needs 55/60 in Externals to reach 90. (Possible)
- Student B (Last Minute): Scores 25/40 in Internals. Needs 65/60 in Externals. (Impossible)
The Evaluation Trap: Even if Student B scores a perfect 100/100 in the final exam (which
scales to 60/60), their total is only 85 (25 + 60). They have mathematically locked themselves out of the
top grade.
The "Pass" Trap
There is also a minimum requirement for the external exam itself (usually 45% of the external marks). You cannot pass by just having high internals. You must perform in both.
Conclusion
Internal marks determine your potential. External marks determine if you reach it. You need both, but Internals are the foundation.
Use our Internal Marks Calculator to check your standing right now.