Frequently Asked Questions

Why has TSU decided to modify the grading scale for the Fall 2020 semester?
The University is implementing the directive as a necessary measure to enhance options
available to students affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Is there a deadline to decide on the Pass-Fail option?

Students shall make the Pass-Fail decision by December 21, 2020. Students will not be allowed
to reverse the decision once the deadline passes. Students will complete an online form affirming
their intentions to receive Pass-Fail grades.

Is the Pass-Fail (P-F) option available for all courses?

Yes, the option is available for all undergraduate courses with the following exceptions:
• courses already using the P-F or S-U grade scale
• courses for which a letter grade is required by specialized accreditation, certification,
licensure, or university policy

Am I required to choose the P-F grades? Is this university wide?

There is not a universal Pass-Fail option for all undergraduate courses. You are not required to
choose this option. Each student has the opportunity to opt for Pass-Fail grades for eligible
courses.

Can I change to P-F for some of my courses but not all, or do I have to switch for all my
courses?
Students may choose the Pass-Fail option on a course-by-course basis.

How will Fall 2020 classes be graded?

Faculty will issue grades in the normal manner as any other semester. A program will be enacted
to switch to Pass-Fail, if the student has opted for that option. The student does not have to share
with the faculty member their choice for the Pass-Fail option.

If I select P-F grading for a class during the Fall 2020 semester, will I be able to repeat the
course for a letter grade in a future semester?
Undergraduate courses with Pass-Fail grades may be repeated for regular letter grades during
another semester, if desired.

How does a grade of P affect my GPA?

The Pass-Fail option will not be used in the grade point average (GPA) calculation, and will not increase
or decrease the GPA.

When will I be able to opt-in?

The opt-in process will begin on November 17, 2020.
Why was I not given the P-F option for some of my courses?

Your course was deemed ineligible due to 1) the course already using the P-F or S-U grade scale or
2) the course for which a letter grade is required by specialized accreditation, certification, licensure, or
university policy.

What if I change my mind after I submit my change?

You can make adjustments until December 21, 2020.

Will my instructor know that I have chosen the P-F option?

The faculty member will not know that you selected the Pass-Fail option for any course.

Will a P grade count toward my major, minor, and degree requirements?

The credit hours earned in Pass-Fail courses shall count toward requirements for your major requirements
and minor requirements, and toward graduation requirements.

Is there a limit to the number of courses that I can switch to the P-F option in Fall 2020?
Students may choose the Pass-Fail option on a course-by-course basis. Students shall make the
Pass-Fail decision by December 21, 2020. Students will not be allowed to reverse the decision
once the deadline passes.

What if I am on academic probation?

The Pass-Fail option will not be used in the grade point average (GPA) calculation, and will not increase
or decrease the GPA.

How will the inclusion of the P-F option affect the Dean’s List for Fall 2020?
Students may choose the Pass-Fail option on a course-by-course basis. Classes where the Pass-
Fail option was chosen, will not be used in the grade point average (GPA) calculation, and will not
increase or decrease the GPA.

Will this affect my athletic eligibility?

Students should consult with the athletic staff for any questions about eligibility.

Will this affect my veteran’s (VA) benefits?

Students should consult with your veterans contact for any questions about eligibility.
I’m on Financial Aid SAP Warning or Probation. Are any special accommodations being
made for students in my situation?
Students are responsible for determining the Pass-Fail option’s impact on a student’s eligibility
for financial aid and scholarships.

I am an international student. Will changing my classes to P-F grading for the Fall 2020
impact my visa status?
Students should work with the Office of International Affairs to determine the impact before
submitting an online application for Pass-Fail.

Are these changes to the P-F rules permanent?

These changes are permanent and reflected on the official student transcript.