Scoring Scale


Instructions for reviewers:

  • Review each grant assuming each criterion will start at 5 “in the middle”, then adjust scores for each criterion accordingly, based on strengths and weaknesses discovered. 
  • A score of 5 correlates to a good, medium-impact proposal and should be considered an average score.
  • If using the descriptors below in your critiques, ensure that they align with the selected score for that criterion.
Scoring Scale
Number Description
1 Exceptional, no weaknesses on program criteria
2 Outstanding, minor weaknesses on program criteria
3 Excellent, more strengths than weaknesses on program criteria
4 Very Good, minor weaknesses on program criteria
** 5 ** Good, strengths and weaknesses are equivalent on program criteria
6 Satisfactory, weaknesses are greater than strengths on program criteria    
7 Fair, weaknesses are greater than strengths on program criteria
8 Marginal, too many weaknesses in program criteria
9 Poor, little to no strengths in program criteria

 

 

Descriptor Definitions
Descriptors
Notable: Important – Significant - Noteworthy
Exceptional: Brilliant – Remarkable - Unique
Outstanding: Superior – Advanced - Overarching
Excellent: First-rate – Admirable - Superb
Moderate: Reasonable – Sufficient - Sensible 
Very Good: Valuable – Respectable - Beneficial
Good: Decent – Standard – Acceptable
Satisfactory: Suitable – Adequate – Status quo
Low: Reduced – Narrow - Incomplete
Fair: Objective – Rational - Neutral
Marginal: Subpar – Minimal - Limited
Poor: Inadequate – Deficient – Insubstantial 
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