Academic Probation & Dismissal

 

Academic Probation

A student is placed on academic probation if his or her cumulative grade-point average falls below 2.00. Probationary status is indicated on the permanent record as well as on the grade report.When a student is placed on academic probation, the Registrar will send the student (and his or her advisers) a letter defining the terms of the probation and indicating what constitutes satisfactory progress toward removal of the probationary status. Satisfactory progress includes achieving a minimum 2.00-semester grade-point average and meeting the other requirements in the letter. A student remains on probation until the cumulative grade-point average reaches 2.00.

Co-curricular programs unavailable to students on academic probation:

• Varsity sports
• Campus media
• Student government offices
• Student club offices
• Drama productions and music ensembles (Music ensembles and drama productions are not prohibited to those students on academic probation who are taking them for credit as part of their academic load)

At the beginning of the semester, students on academic probation are required to complete an academic success plan, in consultation with their adviser. After meeting with their adviser, they must meet with an adviser in Student Support Services. Depending on what areas are targeted for improvement, we may suggest regular meetings with us, appointments at the Writing Center, work with a peer mentor, or other strategies.

Dismissal

One of the requirements for graduation from St. Mary’s College is that students earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.

To avoid academic dismissal, Student Support Services monitors your progress throughout your time at the College. Students whose cumulative GPA slips below 2.0 are placed on academic probation. If you do not raise your GPA over 2.0 by the end of the following semester — or if you fall below 2.0 in a subsequent semester — you run the risk of dismissal.

Students will not automatically be dismissed due to a low GPA. If you are showing steady improvement, the probationary period may be extended. If not, you may expect to receive a dismissal letter from the office of the Registrar after the second semester with a low GPA. Letters will be delivered by e-mail and US mail. It is your responsibility to check your grades, check your mail, and acquaint yourself with your status.

Students who are dismissed but feel they would benefit from a second chance have the right to appeal their dismissal. Instructions for doing so will be contained in the dismissal letter from the Registrar.

If you accept your dismissal, but after a period of 1–3 years wish to return to the College, you may contact the Office of Student Support Services to discuss how your situation has changed, and make the case for your readmission. Students who have been absent for more than three years and are interested in re-enrolling must re-apply through the Office of Admission.

At any time after your dismissal, we would be happy to speak with you about your academic situation, and make recommendations for how to prepare yourself for an effective and successful return to the College at some point in the future.