Academic Probation
Failure to earn the minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA) will place the student on academic probation.
An undergraduate student, whether admitted as a freshman or a transfer, will be allowed to enroll for a total of two academic terms of probation (excluding summer) during his / her academic career at Appalachian. These two terms of academic probation DO NOT have to be consecutive.
If a student uses the two terms of academic probation mentioned above, but again fails to earn a cumulative GPA sufficient for good academic standing, that student will be suspended.
Probation status is indicated on the grade report as follows:
- Academic Probation - First Probation Term
- Continued Probation - Second Probation Term
- Academic Suspension - Ineligible to Return Fall/Spring terms
First Semester Zero GPA Suspension Policy
The exception to the minimum GPA policy applies to some students earning a 0.0 GPA. Any undergraduate degree-seeking full-time student enrolled in her / his first semester (fall or spring) at Appalachian State University will be academically suspended if she / he receives a GPA of 0.0 (including "I" incomplete grades) for that semester and must return under the forgiveness policy.
Full-time students are defined for these purposes as students who are registered for 12 or more hours at the end of drop / add. A student may appeal this type of academic suspension in writing to the University Registrar prior to the subsequent term. A date for the appeal deadline will be set prior to each term. The University Registrar will convene an Appeals Board and the board's decision will be based on:
(1) the student's letter of appeal, which must include the reason for poor academic performance
(2) documentation of extenuating circumstances
(3) a plan for improving academic performance
Student conduct records will be reviewed by the board in making their decision. All students should note that the board's decision is final. The First Semester / Zero GPA Suspension Appeal Request Form is available online on the Registrar's forms webpage.
(1) the student's letter of appeal, which must include the reason for poor academic performance
(2) documentation of extenuating circumstances
(3) a plan for improving academic performance
Student conduct records will be reviewed by the board in making their decision. All students should note that the board's decision is final. The First Semester / Zero GPA Suspension Appeal Request Form is available online on the Registrar's forms webpage.
Academic Suspension
Students who have used their two terms of academic probation and again fail to maintain the minimum 2.0 GPA will be suspended from the university. Suspended students may not attend during fall or spring semester and are only permitted to attend the summer terms in order to attempt to raise the GPA to the minimum 2.0 to be in good standing.
Suspended students should review the Academic Forgiveness policies to determine if using a forgiveness policy would be a more beneficial way to re-enter the University. Consultation with the Dean’s Office academic advisor is advised.