Introduction
Financial aid recipients are expected to make reasonable progress as a condition of receiving and continuing to receive student financial aid. Student progress is assessed according to qualitative and quantitative measures. The qualitative measure (grades) is very similar to the Academic Progress standard applied to all SU students. The quantitative measure (number of credit hours successfully completed) is used to monitor progress toward degree completion. When these measures are applied, federal regulations require that the student’s entire academic history is considered. This includes semesters or terms during which the student did not receive student financial aid. In response to requirements governing these programs, the University has developed this policy to monitor academic progress.
Programs Governed
by this Policy
The Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Perkins Loan, Federal Direct and Stafford Loans (includes Federal PLUS loans), Federal Work Study Program, and alternative loans for students are governed by this policy.
Satisfactory Progress
Standards:
To encourage the completion of degree/certificate programs within a reasonable time frame and to comply with federal and state requirements, financial aid recipients attending Southern University (SU) must maintain satisfactory academic progress as a condition for receiving financial aid. Satisfactory academic progress requires financial aid recipients to do the following:
1.Meet minimum cumulative grade point averages as listed below;
2. earn credit for a reasonable number of credit hours towards a degree or certificate each term;
3. graduate prior to the maximum timeframe specific to their degree program;
4. Maintain academic standing, usually a specific term and cumulative grade point average, consistent with SU academic policy.
5. Satisfactorily complete at least 67% of cumulative credit hours attempted; and complete courses at an overall rate which will, once again ensure graduation within the maximum timeframe;
Financial aid recipients who do not meet these conditions will lose their financial aid eligibility. Also and unless otherwise stated, a student’s entire academic history (including transfer hours) is considered for purposes of this policy regardless of whether or not the student received financial aid at the time the credit hours were completed.
