Two types of probation exist for the student having academic problems: academic and progress probation. Academic probation, the more common of the two, places students on temporary probation for low grades. Progress probation, on the other hand, places students on probation for failing to complete classes. This means students receive grades of W, I and NP (withdrawn, incomplete and no pass, respectively).
The requirements for progress probation can vary from school to school, but a basic outline exists. Typically a student can find himself on progress probation when receiving a W, I and NP in at least 50 percent of his classes. This percentage can vary depending on the school, but 50 percent is one of the more common thresholds.
A student on progress probation meets with an academic counselor to determine the best course of action. First, the counselor and the student determine how to finish the courses with unfinished grades. Second, the counselor determines the reason for the high amount of unfinished classes. Considerations can include lightening the course load and scheduling. A student can get off progress probation by finishing coursework so the number of classes with a W, I or NP grade falls below the progress probation threshold percentage.
After an established number of consecutive semesters or quarters showing 50 percent of classes with a grade of W, I, or NP, a student faces dismissal from school. Again, 50 percent is a common threshold but not necessarily the rule at every school. The counselor makes a recommendation to the dean, president or other high level school official who then makes a decision regarding whether the student can continue coursework at the school. A negative finding means the student must leave the school.
After a student has been dismissed, the student can usually apply for reinstatement if the school has such a procedure. Reinstatement serves as an appeal to the dismissal decision. Here, the student explains the reasons for the bad grades and gives reasons why the school should allow the student to return. If accepted, the student can return to the school but under close academic supervision.