Probation FAQ:

1. Why am I on probation?
Students are placed on Academic Probation when one of their GPA's (either cumulative, including all U of M coursework, or term, meaning the previous fall or spring semester only) goes below 2.0. You are on probation for the entirety of the next Fall or Spring term, at minimum.

2. How long does probation last?
You will be on probation for at least one term.  During that term, A Probation Hold is placed on your record.  If both GPA's go above 2.0 in your next term, you will be taken off of probation.  If one stays below 2.0, you will be continued on probation.  If both are below 2.0 immediately following a probationary semester, students are suspended from the U of M for at least one year.

3. What does a probation hold do?
A Probation hold will prevent you from registering for next semester until you have the hold removed.

4. What am I supposed to do when I'm on probation?
Most importantly, you need to assess why you've gone on probation in the first place (see resources for help with this!).  You need to earn a 2.0 again in order to be taken off probation, and it may take a very honest assessment of yourself in order for you to achieve that.

You also need to meet with an academic adviser in our office to discuss how your semester is going and what factors led to you being placed on academic probation the previous semester.  Call at least two weeks in advance of your registration time to schedule this appointment.

It is after this advising meeting that your probation hold will be moved ahead so that you can register for the following semester's classes.  You must have this hold removed in order to register.  To make an appointment in the Psychological Sciences Student Community, call 612-626-7707.

5. I can't make an appointment.  Is there any other way to move my probation hold?
An advising appointment is the preferred method for addressing probation and moving the hold.  This is also the best way to make sure the hold is moved ahead of time so you can register on your registration date.  If you can't make an appointment, though, CLA advising also offers probation clinics, available four times in the semester.

For probation clinic dates, times, and locations, please call the Psychological Sciences Student Community:  612-626-7707.

Expect to meet with an adviser for about 10-15 minutes.  Depending on how busy it is, you may also have to wait a few minutes to see an adviser.  Again, since these probation clinics may he held after your registration date, it is preferable that you make a formal scheduled appointment with an adviser.

4. Can I drop classes when I'm on probation?
Yes - you retain the same options for withdrawing from classes that all U of M students have.  However, it is especially important that you assess your progress in your current classes accurately when you're on probation: another semester of classes below 2.0 could be all it takes to put you into academic suspension (if your cumulative GPA goes below 2.0, as well).

Talk to instructors to get feedback on your current grades in class, and discuss options for tutoring or other assistance if your grades are not where they need to be for you to pass the class. 

If you do feel you need to drop a class, we strongly recommend you come in to discuss your situation with an adviser in our office even if you are dropping before the 8-week deadline.  After the 8-week deadline, you must visit our office to petition to drop a class or classes.  See Drop/Add Deadlines for details.

Remember: Probation is not intended to be punitive, but it is a warning that you must address the issues impeding your academic performace.