What is Academic Probation?
Academic Probation is an academic standing assigned at the end of a semester to a student who has not yet met the University's academic standards after previously being placed on Academic Warning and is still having difficulty improving their academic record.
Academic Probation is assigned when one or more of the following apply:
- The cumulative GPA falls below 2.000, and/or
- Overall progression rate (credits earned compared to credits attempted) falls below 66%
What Does Academic Probation Mean?
Academic Probation serves as a supportive intervention, indicating that increased structure, planning, and resources are needed to help a student restore good academic standing. Although Probation can be stressful, it is often a turning point that allows students to pause, refocus, and make meaningful progress with the right support.
Under University policy, students on Academic Probation:
- Are limited to no more than 13 credits in the following semester
- Cannot hold office in any recognized student organization
- Cannot represent the University in any official capacity
- Cannot participate in an intercollegiate athletic team
- May lose eligibility for federal financial aid under Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) guidelines
- Will have Academic Probation noted on their official transcript
These restrictions aim to support academic recovery and are usually removed once the student attains good academic standing. Many students successfully restore their good academic standing after being on Probation.
Academic experiences can be influenced by many factors, both inside and outside the classroom. If personal, health, family, financial, or other challenges have affected your academic performance, support and guidance are available to help you explore options and plan for the future.
What Should I Do If I'm On Academic Probation?
Students on Academic Probation receive an official notification about their academic standing and are required to complete the following:
- Complete the Academic Standing Canvas Course and Self Assessment Form
- The Academic Standing Canvas Course will appear in Canvas within 24-48 hours after receiving the official probation notification. The course aims to help students reflect on their academic experiences, identify areas where they might need more support or focus, and set goals for the next semester. Students must complete the Self Assessment form in the course.
- Meet With An Academic Advisor
- After completing the Canvas course, students must schedule and attend a meeting with an Academic Advisor in the Academic Advising Office. During this meeting, you will work together to create an Academic Improvement Plan tailored to your specific circumstances.
Academic Probation and Financial Aid
Advisors can also help connect students with campus resources and support services, and assist with the Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Appeal. Please note that completion of your Academic Improvement Plan is required before any financial aid appeal can be approved by the Financial Aid Office.
If a SAP Appeal is approved, students may have multiple semesters to demonstrate progress toward returning to good academic standing, depending on individual circumstances.
For more information on the relationship between Academic Probation and financial aid, visit How Does Academic Probation Affect My Financial Aid?