In Australia, a score of 70% typically falls into the Distinction (D) or Credit (B+) range, depending on the university, usually meaning high achievement (70-79%), but sometimes it's just the top of a Credit Pass (70-74%) or the start of a Second Class Honours A (H2A). It's a strong mark, just below a High Distinction (80%+), and indicates excellent understanding.
In most American high schools, a score of 70 typically corresponds to a grade of "C-" or slightly below average. However, keep in mind that grading scales can vary by school and even by individual teachers within a school.
Any grades between 55 and 69 (D and F) are considered failing grades for which unit credit is not earned. While unit credit is not earned for a failing grade, point value is assigned for a D and an F for purposes of computing grade point averages. D = Equivalent to a failing grade and no unit credit is awarded.
An A is 90% to 100%; A B is 80% to 89%; A C is 70% to 79%; A D is 60% to 69%; and finally.
Most of the universities in Australia will consider anywhere between 70 and 84 score as a Distinction which is equivalent to A in the states.
Degree classifications
First-Class Honours (First or 1st) (70% and above) Upper Second-Class Honours (2:1, 2. i) (60-70%)
You'll usually need to receive a letter grade between A and D to pass a class, often the numerical equivalent of 65 percent or higher. Receiving an F—which stands for “fail”—indicates that you did not pass the class. The cutoff to receive an F is usually 64 percent.
The quality of achievement in a course is measured as follows: For Undergraduate Students: "A" indicates outstanding achievement; "B," good; "C," average; "D," below average; and "F," failure.