Strength-Based Grading: FAQs

Will this retroactively change all D- and F grades for students?

No. Previous grades earned will remain as they were originally entered.

How will this affect retention and graduation rates?

It is our goal that this change will positively impact student retention and graduation rates.

Will this affect Western’s accreditation?

No. Western’s external accreditors have been notified and value our innovative approach toward student success.

Some courses allow a D- as a passing grade, how will those be affected?

Students will be required to earn a D or above to pass a course.

If a student receives an NC, will they still be eligible for the honor roll that term or honors at graduation?

Students who receive an NC are not eligible for the Dean’s List (3.5 GPA) and President’s List (4.0 GPA) for that term. They are, however, still eligible to earn honors at graduation, based on their overall WOU GPA. See the applicable Undergraduate Regulations for full details about the honors eligibility requirements:

Is there a limit on the number of times a student can repeat the same course after receiving an NC?

No, there’s currently no limit on how many times a student can repeat a course and that is not changing. However, our Student Success advisors will connect with any student who receives an NC twice for the same course, to help them evaluate strategies and options.

Will this make Western less academically rigorous?

No, students will still be required to meet competency requirements and pass their courses. It is our goal to ensure that we maintain and increase the academic quality of our programs and this academic grade regulation will not change the required expectations needed to graduate.

How will this affect financial aid eligibility?

Students earn financial aid based on need, merit, and credits attempted. Hence this change will not negatively impact student aid eligibility.

How will this affect students applying to graduate or professional schools?

Students applying to graduate school will be admitted based on their academic merit. Their transcripts will reflect the grade earned in each course while at WOU.

Does this only affect undergraduate students?

Yes. The grading scale for graduate courses is not changing.

How will this affect students using veterans educational benefits?

Students using veterans educational benefits who receive a NC grade will have their certification to the Veterans Administration (VA) reduced by the number of NC credits and will owe funds back to WOU, the VA, or both. Students with questions or concerns should contact the Veterans Certifying Official at veterans@wou.edu for further guidance.