Academic Probation Frequently Asked Questions

What does “academic probation” mean?

Undergraduate degree candidates who have a cumulative grade-point average (GPA) below 2.0 are placed on academic probation by the Committee on Undergraduate Records and Certification. Probation means your status as a full-time undergraduate student is in jeopardy.

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How does academic probation affect me?

Students on academic probation have restricted course loads. They may enroll in no more than 14 credits during fall and spring semesters. Students must regain good academic standing in order to graduate, since a 2.0 minimum cumulative grade point-average is required for graduation.  Students should also note that probationary status becomes a part of the permanent record, appearing on the transcript for each semester that the student is on probation. Additionally, students on probation will have a registration hold placed on their account until they meet with an academic advisor.  Students who receive scholarships or financial aid should consult with the Student Financial Services to determine if probationary status will affect your financial aid package.

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How do I remove myself from academic probation?

When your cumulative GPA reaches 2.0 or higher, you will no longer be on academic probation.

You can raise your GPA by taking courses at the University of Delaware and earning final grades of C+ or higher. The higher the grade, the more your GPA is raised. Transfer courses will not raise your GPA or remove you from probation.

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How long will I be on academic probation?

The number of semesters that students are on probation depends on the grades that they earn. You will be removed from probation as soon as your GPA reaches 2.0 or higher.

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Are there any important *dates in the academic calendar of which I should be aware?

Free drop/add for fall semester ends on September 12. The 8-week deadline to drop or change the status of a fall semester course is on October 24. You should keep these dates in mind as you consider changes to your schedule.

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What academic resources are available to me on campus?

The Office of Academic Enrichment offers classes and workshops on study skills, note-taking and test-taking skills, as well as group tutoring for students taking certain courses. The Office of Academic Enrichment offers a series of 1-credit pass/fail courses known as “SkilMods” – UNIV 112, 113, 114 and 115 – which are designed to help you learn the skills you need to do well academically. The Office of Academic Enrichment can also provide you with a list of individual tutors who are available at a reasonable cost.

Other valuable academic resources on campus include the Writing Center, where you can find help for all of your writing assignments, and the Preparatory Mathematics Tutorial Lab, which offers support materials for students enrolled in all of the entry-level math courses.

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If I retake a course and get a better grade will it “erase” the old grade from my transcript?

No. UD does not have a grave forgiveness policy. All grades will appear on the student’s transcript and will be calculated into the GPA. It is important to note, however, that the credits earned for a course will count only once toward the degree, even if you repeat a course.

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Will taking courses at another institution help raise my GPA?

No. Transfer credit grades are not factored into your GPA at the University of Delaware. The credits may count; the grades do not transfer.

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Can I still live in a dorm while I’m on academic probation?

Yes.

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Can I still receive financial aid and scholarships while I am on academic probation?

While students on probation are generally eligible to receive financial aid and scholarships, you should consult with the Student Financial Services to determine if probationary status will affect your financial aid package. In some cases, factors such as lack of progress toward your degree may affect your financial aid. Also, many scholarships require a minimum grade point average above a 2.0, which would mean that students on probation would not be eligible. Contact the Student Financial Services Office at 831-2126 with specific questions.

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Are academic probation and disciplinary probation the same thing?

No. Academic probation is unrelated to disciplinary probation. Disciplinary Probation, a student conduct status, is related to violations of the University code of conduct.

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What is the difference between academic probation and academic dismissal?

Students who are on probation are still considered degree candidates at the University, and are eligible to take a full-time course load of 14 credits. When students are academically dismissed they are no longer eligible to take courses full-time or to receive a degree from the University, unless they later qualify for readmission to full-time status.

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