make the grade
to succeed or reach the necessary standard

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲

make the grade
to be good enough.
An excuse like “I didn't call because I couldn't find your number” doesn't make the grade for most women.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

make the grade
be satisfactory and of an expected level; succeed, qualify for something
My final assignment didn't make the grade and I was forced to do it again.

He was not able to make the grade and could not join the football team.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

make the grade
v. phr., informal
1. To make good; succeed.
It was clear that Mr. Baker had made the grade in the insurance business.
It takes hard study to make the grade in school.
2. To meet a standard; qualify.
That whole shipment of cattle made the grade as prime beef.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲