In an effort to be sensitive and responsive to the hardships that students may be facing due to the unexpected transition to distance learning, several changes have been implemented regarding grading protocol. New grading options are available for the 2020 spring semester.
A Pass/No Pass option and Excused Withdrawals, with refunds, are available. There are various reasons why choosing an Excused Withdrawal versus a Pass/No Pass may be more beneficial than a “D” of “F” grade for a student, so students are strongly encouraged to consult with a counselor before making a decision.
Either option is available in MyGateway through May 23 for students in active classes. After May 23, students will have up to two years to petition a grade change through the Admissions and Records Office. If a student has already completed a course this semester and they would like to change their grading option, they may file a petition at any time.
Students are encouraged to check on their progress with their instructors to see if these options may be good for them. As of April 26, instructors may no longer withdraw students from their courses. Unless a student chooses one of these other options, they will be issued a letter grade by their instructor at the end of the term.
Pass/No Pass:
All Fullerton College students who are currently enrolled in a class may elect to have the Pass/No Pass grade, which demonstrates that a student completed the course. A Pass will appear as a “P” on transcripts and is equivalent to the satisfactory grade of “C.” In addition, a “P” will award units completed, but will not be computed into the grade point average. If students are not sure what is required in a class to receive a “C,” then they should ask their instructor.
A No Pass will appear on transcripts as an “NP” and is a substandard grade, equivalent to the grades of “D” or “F.” Moreover, “NP” grades will not be computed into the grade point average.
An “NP” will not count as an enrollment attempt for purposes of course repetition, however, it may negatively impact a student’s federal financial aid and Satisfactory Academic Progress Calculations.
The University of California and California State University systems are being flexible due to COVID-19 and are accepting more units with a grade of Pass/No Pass. However, if students have any questions, it is recommended students speak with a counselor.
Excused Withdrawal, With Refund:
Students may withdraw from their class(es) and qualify for refunds including enrollment fees. An Excused Withdrawal will appear as an “EW” on transcripts. An “EW” due to extraordinary conditions does not affect a student’s academic progress, academic probation, or ability to repeat a course.
An “EW” will be retroactively awarded to any student who withdrew from a 2020 spring semester course (even before the campus closure), including short-term courses that have already concluded. Admissions and Records will ensure that these students will also get an “EW” on their transcript as well as a refund (if financial aid did not pay for their courses).
An “EW” will not count as an enrollment attempt for purposes of course repetition, however, it may negatively impact a student’s federal financial aid and Satisfactory Academic Progress Calculations.
Students may choose this option in MyGateway until May 23, which also initiates a refund if they paid for their course. Students who want to request an Excused Withdraw after the course has ended will need to submit a petition with Admissions and Records.
Special Advisory Notes:
Financial Aid: The Excused Withdrawal(EW) or Pass/No Pass option may impact a student’s Satisfactory Academic Progress. They will have the option to appeal to the Financial Aid Office for future semesters.
Transfer: The Excused Withdrawal or Pass/No Pass option may impact educational and transfer plans. Students are encouraged to speak to a counselor before choosing this option.
Special Programs: Students in special programs such as Veterans and military-affiliated students, international students, athletes, Promise, or CalWORKs should contact the respective programs for additional guidance before withdrawing from any classes.
Learn more on the Admissions and Records Office website.