Satisfactory Academic Progress

What is Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)?

To be eligible to receive financial aid at VCU, students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).

SAP is a combination of qualitative and quantitative components and is measured by:

• Grade point average
• Number of credit hours earned in relation to number of credit hours attempted (not including transfer credits)
• Number of credit hours attempted in relation to number of credit hours necessary to complete the degree or certification program (including transfer credits)

Please review the institutional SAP policy to determine the requirements for your grade level.

Students who receive or apply for financial aid must have a review of their SAP status completed at least once per academic year. Continuing students who applied for financial aid during the academic year will have their SAP status for the next academic year evaluated after the end of the spring semester. Transfer students, students readmitted to the university, and students who did not apply for financial aid will have their SAP status for the academic year evaluated after their FAFSA results are received by VCU. The maximum timeframe calculation is performed at the end of each semester.

As required by federal regulations, Virginia Commonwealth University has adopted and administers an institutional SAP policy. The minimum policy criteria required by the federal government are outlined in sections 668.16, 668.32 and 668.34 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Each institution participating in federal financial aid programs must use these criteria to develop its own SAP policy that must be applied consistently to all financial aid recipients. VCU's policy is designed to encourage students to improve their academic performance.

To ensure timely processing, the SAP Appeal form should be submitted to the VCU Office of Financial Aid within 30 days after receiving the suspension letter. More

• What is a suspension letter?
• How do I appeal a suspension of financial aid eligibility?

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