The university is announcing a temporary shift in academic policy to allow a modified, opt-in PASS/FAIL grading modality for undergraduate students this fall 2020 semester only. This was broadly supported by the Student Government Association leadership and by the majority of the University Faculty Council members in a vote on Friday, November 6, 2020.

In implementing this policy, we recognize the stress that both students and faculty have experienced resulting from the social isolation induced by the behavior necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, in collaboration with UFC and SGA, we are implementing an opt-in PASS/FAIL policy. Undergraduate students, including Accelerated Master’s Program (co-terminal) students, will have the option to take all of their courses this fall 2020 semester only as EITHER ALL PASS/FAIL or ALL GRADED. We are strongly encouraging students to consult with their advisers and mentors to fully understand the ramifications of this decision, as this may impact their future educational and career opportunities. Nonetheless, we understand that a few select students may need this extraordinary measure. Students must opt in using this form no later than 5 p.m. CST on Tuesday, November 24, 2020. No exceptions will be made to this deadline.

Those students who opt in to the PASS/FAIL grading modality will be allowed to register for ONLY 15 total credit hours in spring 2021 unless they are granted a waiver by their academic adviser. Again, this policy applies ONLY to undergraduate and Accelerated Master’s Program (co-terminal) students.