Excel Formula for Pass or Fail Based on Percentage (IF Function)
The Excel IF function is perfect for automatically labeling scores as "Pass" or "Fail" based on a percentage threshold. Here's how to set it up.
Basic Pass/Fail Formula
=IF(A2>=60,"Pass","Fail")If the score in A2 is 60 or above, it returns "Pass". Otherwise "Fail". Change 60 to your threshold.
Pass/Fail Based on Percentage in Another Cell
If your score is raw (e.g., 45 out of 75) and the passing mark is 60%:
=IF(A2/B2>=0.6,"Pass","Fail")Where A2 is the score and B2 is the total marks.
Show Percentage AND Pass/Fail Together
=TEXT(A2/B2,"0%")&" - "&IF(A2/B2>=0.6,"Pass","Fail")Output: "72% - Pass"
Multiple Thresholds: Distinction / Merit / Pass / Fail
=IFS(A2>=80,"Distinction", A2>=70,"Merit", A2>=60,"Pass", TRUE,"Fail")Conditional Formatting: Color Pass Green, Fail Red
- Select your Pass/Fail column
- Home → Conditional Formatting → Highlight Cells Rules → Text that Contains
- Type "Pass" → choose green fill; repeat with "Fail" → red fill
FAQ
What Excel formula shows Pass or Fail?
=IF(A2>=60,"Pass","Fail") — adjust 60 to your threshold.
Can I use Pass/Fail with a percentage cell?
Yes. If A2 already contains a percentage like 72%, use =IF(A2>=60%,"Pass","Fail") or =IF(A2>=0.6,"Pass","Fail").
How do I use IFS for multiple grade levels?
=IFS(A2>=90,"A",A2>=80,"B",A2>=70,"C",A2>=60,"D",TRUE,"F")
Related: Excel Weighted Grade Formula and Gradebook Template for Teachers.