13. Marking Criteria

Assessment Marking Criteria
These guidelines cover the assessment criteria and requirements for all taught modules, including examinations, extended written work, and other forms of assessment. The criteria build upon and supplement the Queen Mary Assessment Handbook, which is available in the Assessment Handbook (2026-27).

The marking criteria below are designed to apply to all forms of assessment, as appropriate. Assessments are evaluated on seven areas:

  • the accuracy and relevance of the submission;
  • evidence of independent or original analysis;
  • the quality of the logic and analysis of the submission;
  • the use and scope of relevant sources;
  • the organisation and structure of the submission;
  • accurate, appropriate and consistent referencing and citation of sources; and
  • the English language level of the written text.

The following is broken down into the levels of award that can be achieved under:

  • Distinction (70 and above)
  • Merit (60-69)
  • Pass (50-59)
  • Fail (0-49)