Spring 2020 Undergraduate Pass/Fail Option Process

This information applies to the Spring 2020 semester only, given the challenging circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response to the disruption students and faculty have experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the University has decided, in consultation with the Academic Deans and Departmental Chairpersons, to implement an expanded pass/fail option for undergraduate students for the Spring 2020 semester only. The pass/fail policy has been expanded in three significant ways:

• The option to take a course pass/fail, previously extended to April 17, will now be extended until May 6, the day before finals begin. This means students can choose the pass/fail option on qualifying classes beginning immediately. This will be done through the existing process by logging into MySJU and accessing the Pass/Fail Option Request Form in UIS.

• Ordinarily, students may take only one course as pass/fail each semester, depending on their school and major. For the Spring 2020 semester, students will be able to select more than one course in this format. 

• Normally there are limited classes eligible for the pass/fail option. For the Spring 2020 semester, additional courses will be made eligible. This will include major and minor courses and core requirements that are not needed to satisfy licensure or accreditation purposes. 

Students who wish to select the pass/fail option for one or several courses should consult with an academic advisor before making this decision, as it could impact scholarships, future goals, and/or your ability to transfer these credits to another institution.

The last day to withdraw from a class remains April 17. Once the pass/fail option has been chosen for a course, you cannot opt-out. It is permanent.

Remember, although the pass/fail option is now available in an expanded format, no decisions have to be made by you today. We advise you to wait a few weeks as you adjust to remote instruction so that you can make an informed decision. If you need help weighing the pros and cons, please reach out to your academic advisor.

Undergraduate Pass/Fail Option Frequently Asked Questions

When can I begin selecting courses to take with a pass/fail option?
You can begin immediately. Log into MySJU, click on the Spotlight tab on the top left, click on Access UIS, Click Student, Registration, and Pass/Fail Option Request Form. Note: we recommend that you consult with your advisor before making this decision.

Do I have to take all of my classes as pass/fail, or can I choose which classes to take as pass/fail?
It is not all or nothing. You can decide if you want to take one or more classes as pass/fail.

Can core classes be taken as pass/fail?
Yes.

Can classes for a major or minor be taken as pass/fail?
Yes. However, consult with your advisor before making this decision as in certain cases it could also impact scholarships, your future goals, and/or your ability to transfer credits.

Will taking a major course as pass/fail impact my ability to pursue the honors program within my major?
No, it will not.

If I take a class as pass/fail, how does that impact my grade point average (GPA)?
A class taken as pass/fail does not impact your GPA. The course credits earned from the P/F class, assuming you receive a P grade, will count for the purpose of meeting your degree credit requirements.

Does taking a course as pass/fail impact my ability to graduate with Latin honors, e.g., cum laude, magna cum laude, summa cum laude?
These courses will not factor into your GPA and do not factor into the calculation for Latin honors. Therefore, if you need or want a grade to improve your GPA, it is recommended that you speak with your advisor.

Will taking a pass/fail course impact my merit-based scholarship?
A pass/fail grade will not change your eligibility for a merit-based scholarship. Courses taken as pass/fail will not factor into the term or overall cumulative GPA. However, you are strongly encouraged to contact your academic advisor to discuss whether a letter grade or a pass/fail option is most advantageous for you, particularly if you need to improve your GPA and maintain your scholarship for the next semester.

How will this show up on my transcript?
You will see either a P for pass or an X for fail. Neither grade affects your GPA. 

How will this affect my DegreeWorks report?
At the moment your DegreeWorks report will use the existing rules. We will adjust your reports at a later date.

How will this affect the repeat course policy?
Academic Repeat Course rules will be waived with respect to taking a course pass/fail if you previously received a letter grade.

If I am in a combined degree or pathway/fast track program, may I take my graduate classes pass/fail?
Ordinarily graduate classes may not be taken pass/fail. However, please consult with an advisor in your Dean’s office for individual program considerations.

Once I choose to take a course pass/fail, can I change my mind and receive a letter grade instead?
No, this is not possible. Once you choose to take a course pass/fail, the decision is permanent. It is recommended that you carefully consider this before making a decision. There is no rush.

I want to go to graduate/law/medical school. Will taking a pass/fail in a major class affect this decision?
If your future plans involve graduate, law, or medical school, you must speak with your advisor before making this decision.

I am a student in the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and currently a pass/fail course is not an option. Does this expanded policy apply to me?
You may be eligible. Please contact your program director before making a decision.

Will taking a pass/fail course impact my federal aid?
All pass/fail courses will be counted as attempted hours for Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) purposes. Please visit www.stjohns.edu/sapeligibility to review the University's SAP Policy for Federal aid. It is important to note that for federal aid purposes, the impact of COVID-19 on academics is permitted as a basis for an appeal