Campus & Community

Expanded Pass/Fail Grading Option Offered for Spring 2020 Semester

Sunday, March 22, 2020, By News Staff

Dear Syracuse University Undergraduate Students:

In a previous message, I indicated that we have extended the deadline to April 3 for undergraduate students to choose the pass/fail grading option. In light of the quickly developing COVID-19 pandemic and in recognition of the stress it is causing some of you and your families, I write today to inform you of additional action we are taking.

For the spring 2020 semester only, undergraduate students will be permitted to choose the pass/fail grading option for any courses in which they are registered, with the exception of University College online courses.

I urge you to consult with your academic advisor(s) before acting on this opportunity. There are many important things to consider before choosing this grading option:

  • Minimum GPA for declaring majors: Certain majors require students to have minimum GPAs, or minimum grades in “gateway” courses, to declare the major or to proceed within the major. Your academic advisor can help you determine if this concern applies to you.
  • Pre-professional programs: Many professional graduate programs discourage students from taking certain key courses on a pass/fail basis. This is especially true for pre-health majors interested in medical, dental or veterinary school.
  • Majors leading to licensure or other certification: Some licensing agencies require that students report letter grades from core courses in order to obtain professional licenses or certifications. If your program of study is leading to a career that involves certification or licensure, speak to your advisor.
  • Studio and performance-based courses: These courses often have unique grading systems and may not be ideally suited to pass/fail grading.
  • Financial aid implications: You may have scholarships or other forms of financial aid that require you to maintain a minimum GPA. A grade of “P” will not affect your GPA, but a grade of “F” will. If your GPA is near the minimum you need to maintain, you should be very careful about choosing the pass/fail grading option.

To convert to the pass/fail grading option in any of your classes, please notify your academic advisor by email. Your advisor will work with the staff in your school or college, and the Office of the Registrar, to make the changes. You must act by April 3.

Best wishes,

Chris Johnson
Associate Provost for Academic Affairs