Graduate school isn't always easy, and sometimes progress doesn't go the way we hoped. If you find yourself on Academic Notice, do not fret! Your support team is here to help you return to good progress. Below is a brief summary of Academic Notice policies and implications.
Full Academic Notice Information
What is Academic Notice?
Academic Notice (formerly called Academic Probation) is a student status alerting you that some academic improvements are needed to return to Good Standing. Students are placed on Academic Notice for one or more of the following reasons:
- term GPA below 3.0
- cumulative GPA below 3.0
- 9+ total units of Incomplete or Unsatisfactory coursework
How do I return to Good Standing?
If you are on Academic Notice due to term or cumulative GPA, you must take additional letter graded courses to earn a term and cumulative GPA above 3.0.
If you are on Academic Notice due to Incomplete units, you must complete those units. You must work directly with the instructor of record for the course(s) to change your grades from Incomplete.
If you are on Academic Notice due to 9+ units of Unsatisfactory coursework, you are considered to be on "Permanent Notice." There is no way to change your formal status due to current Graduate Council policy. However, you are considered in "Good Standing" internally so long as your earn Satisfactory 299 grades in future quarters.
What do I do right now if I'm on Academic Notice?
You should meet with your major professor and academic advisor to discuss next steps, including recommended coursework and/or expectations for 299 units.
If you are employed as a TA or GSR, you will need to complete a Petition for Exception to Policy (PEP) to maintain employment eligibility. More information about the PEP process is below.
PEP Process
- Complete the top and middle sections of the PEP Application.
- Meet with your major professor to discuss how to return to Good Standing. Record these actions in the PEP Letter of Support* (must be signed by your major professor).
- Meet with your academic advisor to discuss your plan and letter of support. Have them sign your PEP Application.
Send your signed and completed PEP Application and Letter of Support to your hiring department. They will complete the final steps.
*Page 1 of the letter template is for general use. Page 2 of the letter template is for students on "Permanent Notice."
The vast majority of PEP Applications are approved, so do not fret if you don't hear back immediately. Full review can take a few weeks. Work with your hiring department to determine if you can work while awaiting PEP approval.