Grade Point Average
Under OCC’s SAP policy, you must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. That’s
a “C” average. This standard applies starting when you’ve attempted 12 credits.
The rule parallels OCC’s policy that requires at least a 2.0 GPA to graduate.
Course Completion Rate
On a cumulative basis, you must complete with a passing grade of A, B, C, or D at
least two-thirds (67 percent) of the credit hours you attempt. This requirement kicks
in when you’ve attempted 11 credit hours.
Here are two examples of how this works:
- If you attempt a total of 12 credit hours, you must earn a passing grade in eight
credit hours (67 percent of the total).
- If you attempt a total of 18 credit hours, you must earn a passing grade in 12 credit
hours (67 percent of the total).
Maximum Eligibility
Your financial aid eligibility covers the credit hours needed for your degree or certificate
plus 50 percent. Then you reach your maximum eligibility limit. Financial aid ends
because you’re not making SAP toward your degree or certificate.
Here are examples of how this works:
- The Baking and Pastry Arts certificate requires 32 credit hours. You’re eligible for
financial aid for 48 credit hours (32 + 16 = 48).
- The Early Childhood Education associate degree requires 60 credit hours. You’re eligible
for financial aid for 90 credit hours (60 + 30 = 90).
- The Radiologic Technology extended associate degree requires 86 to 88 credit hours.
You’re eligible for financial aid for 129 to 132 credit hours (86 + 43 = 129 or 88
+ 44 = 132).
One important note: Any credit hours you transfer to OCC count toward your maximum
eligibility limit.
How to Get Your Financial Aid Reinstated
If you lose your financial aid because you fail to make SAP, you have two options
to get it reinstated. The most common option is to take enough credits with your own
money to meet the eligibility requirements.
If you failed to make SAP because of extenuating circumstances, you can appeal your
loss of aid. These situations must be beyond your reasonable control. Some examples
include you suffering a major illness or accident or an immediate family member becoming
seriously ill or dying.
You’ll get an email if you fail to meet SAP. It has a link to a form for appealing
your loss of aid. You also should submit any supporting documentation. A committee
will review your appeal, and its decision is final.
There are three deadlines for submitting appeals:
- Fall: Sept. 30
- Winter: Jan. 31
- Summer: May 31