Outstanding

Outstanding is one of the three passing grades, out of six grades overall, in the Ordinary Wizarding Levels, Nastily Exhausting Wizarding Tests and Wizards' Ordinary Magic and Basic Aptitude Tests. It is the highest mark possible, immediately above Exceeds Expectations.

Passing into N.E.W.T. Classes
While most professors at Hogwarts set their N.E.W.T. classes entrance standards at Exceeds Expectations, meaning that the students must acquire such a grade in their O.W.L. in order to continue, Professor Severus Snape had set his Potion standards to Outstanding, meaning only the very best can continue.

Other Grades
Passing Grades
 * O - Outstanding
 * E - Exceeds Expectations
 * A - Acceptable

Failing Grades
 * P - Poor
 * D - Dreadful
 * T - Troll

Known Recipients

 * Harry Potter
 * Defence Against the Dark Arts O.W.L.
 * Hermione Granger
 * Study of Ancient Runes O.W.L.
 * Arithmancy O.W.L.
 * Astronomy O.W.L.
 * Care of Magical Creatures O.W.L.
 * Charms O.W.L.
 * Herbology O.W.L.
 * History of Magic O.W.L.
 * Potions O.W.L.
 * Transfiguration O.W.L.
 * Neville Longbottom
 * Herbology O.W.L.
 * John Dawlish
 * Defence Against the Dark Arts N.E.W.T.
 * Charms N.E.W.T.
 * Herbology N.E.W.T.
 * Potions N.E.W.T.
 * Transfiguration N.E.W.T.

Appearances

 * Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
 * Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (video game)
 * Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
 * Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (film)