A student is automatically placed on academic probation when his grade point average (GPA) drops below a certain standard. A GPA is the measure of a student's academic achievement and is calculated by dividing total grade points received by the total number attempted. This average can vary depending upon the institution; however, many schools consider any cumulative GPA below 2.0 grounds for automatic probation. The student is promptly advised of his status through email or direct mail and given information about probationary rules and regulations.
Once the student is notified that she is on academic probation, certain criteria specified by the university must be met in order for her to regain good academic standing. To make acceptable progress, the student must raise her GPA and (depending on the school) attend academic support seminars, create an academic action plan and attend study groups or receive tutoring. Students are also encouraged to meet with advisors or counselors.
If the student fails to meet the probationary standards set by the college, he is subject to academic disqualification, although the college can make exceptions when they are deemed appropriate. For example, if a student raises his term GPA, yet his cumulative GPA remains below the required average, the college may allow him to stay.
If the student is dropped due to poor academic standing, most colleges allow the option of appeal. Appeal procedures differ from school to school, so it's important for students to be familiar with the guidelines at their institution. Most colleges require a written notice of appeal, followed by a statement of appeal filed with the registrar. At the hearing, the student makes her case with the support of witnesses. The hearing committee may cross-examine the witnesses in order to arrive at their decision.
Academic probation is a very serious setback for any student seeking a college degree. If academic progress is not made during the time allocated, the student will face expulsion and may be denied entrance to other institutions of higher learning. On the other hand, if academic progress is made and the student meets the institution's expectations, he will be back in good academic standing, and his college career need not be jeopardized.