Academic Probation & Disqualification Support
Many students face academic difficulty at some point in their college careers—you are not alone! There are many people across campus that are here to support you in your academic journey.
Academic Probation Policy
Students whose term, CPSLO, or Higher Ed GPAs fall below 2.0 will be placed on academic probation (AP). Being on academic probation causes many students (and supporters) to feel confused, overwhelmed, and stressed. If that's you, take a deep breath-we're here to help!
Know Your Status
First, it helps to understand your status. The academic probation policy breaks down varying levels of severity into two statuses: Academic Probation Status and Disqualification Status. Be sure to read the difference between these statuses and learn more about which applies to you. Note that disqualification status does not automatically equate to dismissal from the university.
Next Steps
Students in the Bailey College of Science and Mathematics may be required to participate in a tailored intervention as a means of providing support and to promote student success.
First-Year Students
First-year students (freshmen) on academic probation for the first time after fall or winter terms must participate in the First Year Success Program (FSP) coordinated through the Mustang Success Center. FSP is in place to motivate and encourage students, not to punish them. Students will work with Cal Poly faculty, staff, or graduate students who have volunteered to serve as a resources and academic coaches. Students will receive an email outlining the steps they need to take.
First-year students on academic probation after spring term will be required to meet with a Bailey College academic advisor. This meeting must occur before fall term. Students will receive an email with details on how to schedule this appointment.
New Transfer Students
New transfer students who are on Academic Probation for the first time after fall or winter terms must participate in the Transfer Academic Success Program (TASP), coordinated through the Transfer Center. TASP provides dedicated support to enhance student's self-efficacy, and facilitate the utilization of academic resources. Students will receive an email outlining the steps they need to take and will also be placed in a Canvas shell for TASP.
Continuing Students
Continuing students who are on Academic Probation for the first time will be required to register for and attend an AP workshop to learn how to navigate the AP policy, calculate major GPA, find campus resources, and more. Check your Cal Poly email for sign up information. Students who have been on AP multiple terms are strongly encouraged to meet individually with a Bailey College academic advisor.
Academic Disqualification Status
The Office of the Registrar notifies students who are on academic disqualification status before the beginning of the next consecutive regular term via your Cal Poly email address.
Students will not be dismissed due to academic disqualification status at the end of the winter term, but will be placed on an academic success contract.
Academic Disqualification Appeal Process
Students who are on academic disqualification status at the end of fall or spring terms, may appeal for reinstatement. The appeal form will be available at the end of fall and spring terms.
If your appeal is approved, you must follow the instructions in the email you receive from Bailey College and schedule an appointment with an academic advisor by the date specified to establish an academic success contract for the next term.
If your appeal is not approved or you do not submit an appeal you will be dismissed from Cal Poly. You are able to apply for readmission after meeting with the Bailey College Associate Dean.
For more information, refer to the Undergraduate Academic Probation and Disqualification policy.
