Course Loads and Normal Progress

The normal course load for students graduating in eight semesters is 16 credits per semester. To remain in good standing, all students are expected to register for and complete a minimum of 12 credits per semester. The maximum load is 18 credits, including music performance and all practica. Studio instruction in music or theatre or sport performance is not counted when determining credits in excess of 18. A student requests permission to carry more than 18 credits in a semester (or fewer than 12 credits) by submitting a written request to the registrar for action by the Committee on Academic Standing. Students registered for more than 18 credits per term are billed the per credit rate for the credits in excess of 18.

Some first-year students may be advised to enroll for fewer than 16 credits. Students will not be allowed to drop below 8 credits.

Normal Progress

Good academic standing is defined as making normal academic progress with GPA and credits and having no academic sanctions more severe than probation. Strict probation or suspension removes a student from good academic standing.

A student's normal progress is based on the number of credits earned at Grinnell and the cumulative grade point average. A student is making normal progress toward graduation if he or she has earned the credits and cumulative grade point average listed below by the end of each specific semester at Grinnell.

2.00

*Some first-semester students may be advised to enroll for fewer than 16 credits.