The pilot was ordered after fears that the current system, which awards graduates first, upper-second, lower-second and third-class degrees, is failing adequately to differentiate between students.
The consultation is to be led by the UK standing committee for quality assessment, and will consult on publishing analysis of each institution's awards policy, the role of external examiners and review the current use of first-, second- and third-class degrees.
In a recent survey, 87% of UK graduates with first or second class degrees saw freelancing as highly attractive and 85% believe freelancing will become the norm.
The changes come amidst concerns that the current system of first-, second- and third-class degrees is too crude and does not distinguish students' marks clearly enough.
Black engineering graduates are less likely to find jobs than white students with lower second or third class degrees, according to a report that reveals stark inequalities within the profession.
3 4 5 Medicine was largely excluded from these studies because it is an unclassified degree (that is, students either pass or fail; they do not receive first, second, or third class degrees).
The watchdog's analysis shows the number of graduates being awarded first and upper-second class degrees rose from 67% in 2010-11 to 78% in 2016-17.
Yes, it is comparing UK and international students gaining second class degree.
Moreover, black students are more likely to drop out, and make up the lowest proportion of students graduating with a first or upper second class degree.
What does second class degree mean?
