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Academic Forgiveness

Academic forgiveness is the opportunity to start over with a new cumulative grade point average. It is designed to help students overcome previous unsuccessful semesters. Academic forgiveness allows a student to be “forgiven” for one or more previous underperforming semesters. These grades would no longer apply to the student’s cumulative GPA. A student can apply for academic forgiveness when:

  • At least two full semesters have passed with a “C” average since the last semester to be forgiven.
  • The student has completed at least twelve (12) credits at LCOOU with a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
  • The student must complete courses with a C in at least 2/3 of their credits attempted since the last semester to be forgiven.
  • If you are granted academic forgiveness, LCOOU will:
  • Apply toward graduation those courses in which you earned a C or better.
  • Apply toward your prerequisites and general degree requirements those courses in which you earned a C or better; and
  • Determine your cumulative grade point average from the courses you have taken, excepting those specially forgiven.

Students cannot apply for Academic Forgiveness in the same semester they apply for graduation. The university keeps an official record of all attempted credits at LCOOU, with original grades remaining on the transcript and forgiven grades marked distinctly. Academic Forgiveness is only guaranteed for LCOOU purposes; other universities or programs may not recognize it. This option can be used only once during your time at LCOOU. Before applying, students must meet with the Director of Financial Aid. If you receive GI Bill benefits, consult your Veterans Administration representative, as Academic Forgiveness might require repaying past benefits.

To apply, obtain your transcript from the Registrar and write a one- to two-page letter explaining which semesters you want forgiven and how you have addressed the issues that led to poor performance. Meet with your advisor, whose signature is needed and then submit your letter and transcript to the Chief Academic Officer or Registrar. A decision will be made in consultation with the Financial Aid Office, and you will be notified via email within 10 business days.

Financial Aid Disclaimer

When determining if a student is meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), all attempted courses still count, even if the student has been granted academic forgiveness.