April 3, 2020

Dear Students,

In light of the extraordinary circumstances of this semester, I write to share what I hope is positive news that will enable you to remain focused on your important coursework. William Paterson University has put into place a new Spring 2020 Pass / No Credit and Course Withdrawal Extension Policy for both undergraduate and graduate students. You can read the details on the Registrar’s website, but a brief summary of its components include the following:

• You may choose to receive a course grade or a course Pass / No Credit option for any or all of your courses this Spring.
• This is a decision you do not have to make now but will be able to select after May 1 and up until June 1, approximately one week after you receive your final grades.   This timeframe will allow you to make the choice based on how you actually performed.
• If you select the Pass / No Credit option, that course(s) will not factor into your GPA.
• A Pass in a course will count toward major, minor, and/or UCC requirements and will count toward Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements for maintaining financial aid for next year. A No Credit in a course will not count toward graduation requirements and will not count toward Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements.  Unlike an F, a No Credit grade will not be factored into the cumulative GPA.
• There will be a form to complete to request Pass / No Credit on the Registrar’s website that will activate starting May 1.
• Probation and dismissal policies are suspended this semester with limited exceptions associated with particular accredited programs.
• If you have a renewable merit scholarship and are currently in good academic standing, you will be able to maintain it regardless how you perform academically this term.
• The date to withdraw with a WD grade has been extended from April 9th to April 30th. However, before deciding to withdraw from a course, please consult an advisor and consider whether the Pass/ No Credit option might be a better option for you.  Our goal is to assist you if possible in progressing toward your degree completion despite these challenging times.

 Be sure you read the new policy carefully for details. It is also crucial that you reach out to your advisor before deciding to pursue Pass / No Credit.

All the best as you continue to engage remotely.  We hope that this policy will relieve at least one point of anxiety so you can focus on your courses, your learning, and the ultimate goal, achieving your degree.

Sincerely,

Joshua B. Powers
Provost & Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
William Paterson University