Yes, a B in chemistry is generally considered good, especially in challenging courses like Organic Chemistry where Bs are common and even respected, but whether it's "good enough" depends on your goals (e.g., <
The analytical and problem-solving skills acquired through such a degree are highly valued across various sectors. Chemistry graduates find roles not only in science but also in business, education, and other areas, offering opportunities for those eager to contribute to society.
Chemistry a-level is extremely hard compared to other subjects, with only 13.6% achieving an A* in 2022 and 24.4% getting an A. Many students struggle with chemistry in school and wonder if they have what it takes to handle the rigours of an A-Level chemistry course.
In general, the average GPA for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) majors, including Chemistry, can range from around 2.5 to 3.5. The specific GPA for a Chemistry major can vary by the institution and how they grade their courses.
How many? On average about 25% fail general chemistry according to Cooper and Peterson (2012). Others have found rates from 40-60%. That's a lot of students and you don't want to be one of them.
According to study after study, Algebra 1 is highlighted as the most failed course in America. Some estimates say that as many as 40% of students take the course more than once in order to achieve an acceptable grade.
Last year 27.1 per cent of entries in biology received an A* or A, rising to 27.6 per cent this year. For chemistry, this was 32.2 per cent in 2024, falling to 32 per cent in 2025; in physics, it was 31.5 per cent in 2024, rising to 31.9 per cent this year.
GPA of 6 and 7 are considered as an excellent score in Australian universities and among Australian employers. GPA of 6 or 7 means Distinction or Higher Distinction.
Listed as the No. 1 hardest major, with the lowest GPA of the group (2.78), is none other than Chemistry. Chemistry majors explore the composition, structures, properties, and reactions of matter, often spending a lot of time in the lab.
How to study Chemistry
If you struggle with mathematical and logical thinking, Chemistry may be the degree to avoid. Also, there's a lot of practical learning involved in Chemistry, which means that when you're not trying to get your head around macromolecules and redox reactions, you'll be spending the rest of your time in the lab.
Chemistry is a highly respected science and as such a degree in chemistry will afford you a lot of opportunities.
Known for its complex concepts and demanding workload, organic chemistry is often considered one of the most difficult college classes.
Psychology
A bachelor's in psychology ranks among the easiest majors. You can develop skills that apply to varying careers in counseling or marketing. As you complete your undergraduate psychology degree, you'll take classes such as human development, psychology theories, and research in the psychology field.
Opportunities include, but are not limited to:
The most difficult majors require extensive study time, more STEM courses, and a solid foundation in math. Chemistry, engineering, and physics are generally considered some of the hardest college majors available to undergraduates.
What College Major Has The Highest Dropout Rate?
Many students perceive chemistry as one of the toughest college majors due to its demanding coursework and complex concepts. In the U.S., chemistry programs report a retention rate of about 56%, lower than the average for STEM fields.
15 Hardest Degrees in the World
Australia uses a unique 7-point GPA scale that differs slightly from other countries like the U.S. Here's how it works at a glance:
To have the best shot of getting in, you should aim for the 75th percentile, with a 1580 SAT or a 36 ACT. You should also have a 4.2 GPA or higher. If your GPA is lower than this, you need to compensate with a higher SAT/ACT score.
A low GPA is not the end of the world!
At the end of the day, GPA is just a number and universities are aware of that fact. For many students, while their grades may be low, they are hard-working, ambitious, and have grown way past that score. Those students need to display that trait in their application.
Chemistry is a union between disciplines, and the study of chemistry is a true integration of various processes of the brain. These processes by themselves can be difficult for many students, but they aren't impossible, especially if students work with a science tutor.
Performing/Expressive Arts is currently the least popular A Level, with only 897 entries in summer 2024.
You typically start studying chemistry in 10th grade as part of your science curriculum.