3.5 Grading System
3.5.1 Grade Point Average
All University System of Georgia (USG) institutions shall be on a 4.00 grade point average (GPA) system, calculated to and truncated at two significant digits.
3.5.1.1 Grades Approved in Determining the Grade Point Average
The following grades are approved for use in institutions in the determination of the Grade Point Average:
| Grade | Grade Point Average |
|---|---|
| A | Excellent (4.00) |
| B | Good (3.00) |
| C | Satisfactory (2.00) |
| D | Passing (1.00) |
| F | Failure (0.00) |
| WF | Withdrew failing (0.00) |
The University of Georgia and Georgia State University shall be on the following grade point average system, calculated to and truncated at two significant digits, with the following numeric equivalents.
| Grade | Grade Point Average |
|---|---|
| A | 4.00 |
| A- | 3.70 |
| B+ | 3.30 |
| B | 3.00 |
| B- | 2.70 |
| C+ | 2.30 |
| C | 2.00 |
| C- | 1.70 |
| D | 1.00 |
| F | 0.00 |
In addition, Georgia State University will be allowed to use an A+ designation, with the equivalent numerical value of a 4.30. The University of Georgia and Georgia State University shall not use plus/minus grades in the calculation of the HOPE Scholarship grade point average.
3.5.1.2 Cumulative Grade Point Average
The cumulative grade point average in each USG institution will be calculated by dividing the number of hours scheduled in all courses attempted in which a grade of A, B, C, D, F, or WF has been received into the number of grade points earned on those hours scheduled. The cumulative grade point average will be recorded on the student’s permanent record. Institutional credit shall in no way affect the cumulative grade point average.
Other averages may be computed by each institution for internal uses as may be required.
3.5.2 Symbols Not Included in Determining the Grade Point Average
The following symbols are approved for use by USG institutions in the cases indicated, but shall not be included in the determination of the GPA:
“I” indicates that a student was doing satisfactory work but, for non-academic reasons beyond his or her control, was unable to meet the full requirements of the course. The requirements for removal of an “I” are left to the respective institutions. However, if an “I” is not satisfactorily removed after three academic terms of residence, the symbol “I” will be changed to the grade “F” by the appropriate official.
“IP” indicates that credit has not been given in courses that require a “CP” continuation of work beyond the term for which the student signed up for the course. This symbol cannot be substituted for an “I.”
“K” indicates that a student was given credit for the course via a credit by examination program approved by the respective institution’s faculty (e.g., CLEP, AP, Proficiency). “K” credit may be provided for a course the student has previously audited if the institutional procedures for credit by examination are followed.
“S” indicates that credit has been given for completion of degree requirements other than academic course work. The use of this symbol is approved for dissertation and thesis hours, student teaching, clinical practicum, internship, and proficiency requirements in graduate programs. Exceptions to the use of this symbol for academic course work must be submitted to the USG chief academic officer for approval.
“U” indicates unsatisfactory performance in an attempt to complete degree requirements other than academic course work. The use of this symbol is approved for dissertation and thesis hours, student teaching, clinical practicum, internship, and proficiency requirements in graduate programs. Exceptions to the use of this symbol for academic course work must be submitted to the USG chief academic officer for approval.
“V” indicates that a student was given permission to audit this course. Students may not transfer from audit to credit status or vice versa. Students may register, however, on a credit basis for a course that has previously been audited.
“W” indicates that a student was permitted to withdraw without academic penalty. Each institution, following guidance outlined in the Academic and Student Affairs Handbook, shall determine the last date within a term for withdrawals without academic penalty. Exceptions in cases of hardship will be determined by the appropriate official of the respective institution.
“WM” indicates a student was permitted to withdraw under the Board of Regents policy for military service refunds as provided in Board Policy. The use of this symbol indicates that this student was permitted to withdraw without penalty at any time during the term.
3.5.3 Grade Point Average Upon Academic Renewal
Undergraduate students who are either returning to a University System of Georgia (USG) institution or are transferring to a USG institution may be eligible for Academic Renewal, which signals the initiation of a new grade point average to be used for determining academic standing. This provision allows USG degree-seeking students who experienced earlier academic difficulty to make a fresh start and have one final opportunity to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree.