Fall 2020 Grading Options for Students

Fullerton College recognizes that students may still be facing unexpected hardships related to COVID-19 and the transition to virtual learning. In an effort to be sensitive and responsive to those hardships, temporary grading options for the 2020 fall semester will continue to be available. 

 A Pass/No Pass option and Excused Withdrawals, with refunds option, are available for semester-length classes until Sunday, Dec. 6. There are various reasons why choosing an Excused Withdrawal versus a Pass/No Pass may be more beneficial than a “D” or “F” grade for a student, so students are strongly encouraged to consult with a counselor before making a decision. Choosing an excused withdrawal may also impact students receiving financial aid. 

Both options are available in MyGateway. Students are encouraged to check on their progress with their instructors to see if these options may be good for them.  If an Excused Withdrawal or Pass/No Pass is not selected, traditional grading remains and students will be issued a letter grade by their instructor at the end of the term. 

PASS/NO PASS: 

All Fullerton College students who are currently enrolled in a class may elect to have the Pass/No Pass grade, which demonstrates that a student completed the course. A Pass will appear as a “P” on transcripts and is equivalent to the satisfactory grade of “C.” In addition, a “P” will award units completed, but will not be computed into the grade point average. Students should consult with their instructor if they are not sure what is required to receive a “C.”  

A No Pass will appear on transcripts as an “NP” and is a substandard grade, equivalent to the grades of “D” or “F.” Moreover, “NP” grades will not be computed into the grade point average. 

An “NP” will not count as an enrollment attempt for purposes of course repetition, however, it may negatively impact a student’s federal financial aid and Satisfactory Academic Progress Calculations. 

If students have any questions, it is recommended they speak with a counselor. Learn more at the Admissions and Records Office Pass/No Pass webpage 

EXCUSED WITHDRAWAL, WITH REFUND:   

Students may withdraw from their class(es) and qualify for refunds including enrollment fees. An Excused Withdrawal will appear as an “EW” on transcripts. An “EW” due to extraordinary conditions does not affect a student’s academic progress, academic probation, or ability to repeat a course. 

An “EW” will not count as an enrollment attempt for purposes of course repetition, however, it may negatively impact a student’s federal financial aid and Satisfactory Academic Progress Calculations. 

Students may choose this option in MyGatewayLearn more at the Admissions and Records Office EW webpage.  

SPECIAL ADVISORY NOTES: 

Financial Aid: The Excused Withdrawal (EW) or Pass/No Pass option may impact a student’s Satisfactory Academic Progress. They will have the option to appeal to the Financial Aid Office for future semesters. 

Transfer: The Excused Withdrawal or Pass/No Pass option may impact educational and transfer plans. Students are encouraged to speak to a counselor before choosing this option. 

Special Programs: Students in special programs such as Veterans and military-affiliated students, international students, athletes, Promise, or CalWORKs should contact the respective programs for additional guidance before withdrawing from any classes. 

For Instructors: Instructors may withdraw students from their courses until Sunday, Nov. 15.

More Information:

For additional information on Pass/No Pass or Excused Withdrawals visit the Admissions and Records Office website. Students may contact the Admissions and Records staff through live chat, Zoom, or by submitting a question.