Probation and Disqualification          Printer-friendly version

The Office of Graduate Studies approaches the subjects of student probation and disqualification very seriously and methodically. We follow the requirements of both state law and CSUF university policy, as outlined in the University Catalog. In addition, we consult with the graduate program advisor or chair of the department involved and conduct an in-house discussion of each potential disqualification case.

Policies

Probation and disqualification standards are specified within Title 5 of the California Code as it relates to the California State University campuses [Section 41300, subsections d. and f]. That language is as follows:

A) “A student who is enrolled in a graduate degree program in conditionally classified or classified standing shall be subject to academic probation if the student fails to maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 (grade of B) in all units attempted subsequent to admission to the program.” [Emphasis added]

B) Moreover, “A graduate or post-baccalaureate student shall be disqualified, if while on probation, the student fails to earn sufficient grade points to be removed from probationary status.” [Emphasis added]

Cal State Fullerton allows each probationary student two semesters of probationary status in which to raise the grade point average above the 3.0 threshold. [University Catalog 2007-09 edition, p. 48]. Statements relating to disqualification follow those pages and are virtually identical with the wording in state law, Title 5.

Pages 47 and 48 of the 2007-09 edition of the Catalog explain probation and disqualification actions in further detail. Students may be placed on “academic-administrative probation” for reasons other than a low grade point average. The official responsible for making the formal disqualification decision and notification is the Associate Vice President, Academic Programs, who: “will disqualify a graduate student who is on probation if the student does not, or cannot raise the Study Plan and cumulative grade point average to 3.0 by the completion of the second regular semester following the semester in which the grade point average fell below the 3.0 minimum.” [Catalog, p. 48].

Right of Petition

The university extends to students the right to file a formal petition for review of academic regulations “when unusual circumstances exist.” The University Catalog further states, however, that “academic regulations, when they are contained in Title 5, California Code of Regulations, are not subject to petition.” [University Catalog 2007-09 edition, p. 48]. Hence, decisions concerning probationary status and student disqualification may not be petitioned.

Grade-point averages are calculated by dividing grade points earned by units attempted. To calculate your GPA California State University, Fullerton's Academic Center has created a GPA Calculator for your use. Any 400 or 500 level courses completed will be used to calculate the the graduate students overall GPA.  You should contact your advisor regarding any coursework completed that is 300 level or below .

      GPA = Total Grade Points divided by Total Units Attempted

The following shows grade point values using the 4-point scale:

Grade Point Balance System

The Grade Point Balance system is a system that is used to show you your relative position to a 3.0 GPA.  A positive value indicates a GPA above 3.0, a negative value indicates less than 3.0, a zero grade point balance indicates a GPA of exactly 3.0. You are on probation whenever there is a negative number in either the all university GPA or Cal State Fullerton GPA. To get off probation, you need to receive enough positive grade points (A grades) to offset the negative grade points (C, D, or F grades). B grades will not change your grade point balance. The following chart shows how grade point balance values are determined for whole grades. Pluses and minus change the grade point values. For example, a B+ in a three unit course is actually +0.9, a B- is -0.9.

Any course on the approved program of study in which a grade of C-, D, F, WU, or IC is received must be repeated regardless of the study plan cumulative grade-point average of the student. These courses may be repeated only once, and the grades received on both attempts will be used in computing the cumulative grade-point average. However, the student may repeat courses in which a “WU” was received and apply to have only the most recently earned grades count toward calculation of the cumulative grade-point average.  This provision may be applied only to the first occurrence of “WU” grades and will not apply to additional “WU” grades earned in any subsequent semester. It is the responsibility of the student to complete the forms needed to implement this adjustment to the cumulative grade-point average. Unless indicated differently on a students study plan a grade of "C" is a passing grade and need not be retaken. If you are unsure about your individual situation please schedule an appointment with your Graduate Programs Advisor.

RY 0905