Understanding Academic Problems
What does "Academic Probation" mean?
In order to remain "In Good Standing" academically at Virginia Tech, you must maintain a gpa of 2.0. If it falls under 2.0 during a semester, you will be placed on academic probation. This means you should reconsider how many credits you are taking per semester and should speak immediately with your advisor to determine what sort of steps you can take to ensure that your grades recover. You can still, however, take classes.
My gpa is below 2.0, and I've just been given a "First Academic Suspension." Does this mean I am totally kicked out of Tech?
No, it doesn't! If you have two semesters in a row -- either fall-spring OR spring-fall -- where your gpa falls below 2.0, you will have to "sit out" a semester, though. This would include summer if you are placed on suspension at the end of the spring semester. While you are on suspension, you cannot take courses elsewhere to transfer back to Tech.
What will happen to me if I get a "Second Academic Suspension"?
In the case of a Second Academic Suspension, you will "sit out" for an entire calendar year after you receive the suspension. Then you can return to classes. While you are on suspension, you cannot take courses elsewhere to transfer back to Tech.
I'm getting ready to come back to Tech after having experienced academic suspension. Are there any rules I have to know about regarding my gpa or the kinds of grades I'll have to make now? Will I be held to a higher standard than other students just because I've been on suspension?
There are certain Returning Academic Performance standards that will apply if you are returning to school after a suspension. However, the minimum standard--that involving maintenance of a 2.0 gpa--is the same one applied to every student at Tech.
If you are coming back after a suspension, you must EITHER:
- earn a minimum gpa of 2.0 your first semester back (semester gpa) and raise your cumulative gpa to at least a 2.0 by the end of your second semester OR
- earn a 2.5 or higher gpa thereafter until your cumulative gpa is 2.0 or higher.
The standards are the same regardless of whether you're coming back to Tech after your First or Second Academic Suspension.
What does "Permanent Academic Suspension" mean?
Unfortunately, it's pretty self-explanatory! It means you will no longer be permitted to take courses at the University.
What if I'd like to appeal a suspension? Can I do that? If so, how?
You can appeal each suspension -- regardless of whether it's a First, Second, or Permanent one! -- to the University Academic Appeals Committee. To do so, you should contact Dr. Mary Ann Lewis, Associate Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences.
Are there any places I can go on campus for academic assistance?
One place that can help you if you believe you are running into trouble academically is the Center for Academic Enrichment and Excellence, which is located in Femoyer 110. If you browse the center's web site, you'll see that those who work there are dedicated to offering any number of ways to help you, from programs to courses to tutoring. Give them a call at 231-5499 or drop by their offices. They're extremely friendly!