Academic Difficulty

Feeling overwhelmed? Take charge!

Are you struggling in your classes? Overwhelmed by the quarter system? Finding it difficulty to obtain the grades you need to be in good standing? Not to worry, you are not alone! A lot of students struggle with their coursework in college at some point. University level coursework is rigorous and instructors have high expectations. If you have been notified by the Office of the Registrar, and/or Cowell College that you are not in good academic standing, you probably have many questions that can be answered here:

What does it mean to be on Academic Probation?

  • If your current GPA is less than 2.0, but not less than 1.5 or
  • If your cumulative GPA is less than 2.0

What does it mean to be Subject to Disqualification?

  • If your current GPA is less than 1.5 or
  • If you are already on academic probation and your cumulative GPA is below 2.0

When you are subject to disqualification, Cowell College will review your academic record to determine if you will be allowed to continue enrollment at UCSC. In some cases, students may be barred or disqualified from the university.

What does it mean to be barred or disqualified?

Barred status means that a student is being asked to take a break from the university for one to three quarters. In some cases, students might be asked to complete additional requirements such as selecting a new major or taking coursework at another institution. Disqualification is more severe, and in most cases, a disqualified student is no longer eligible to complete their degree at UCSC.

What should I do now?

If you are not in good standing, you will be asked to meet with an adviser to discuss your status before doing so, you need to complete the academic standing tutorial and worksheet below:

UCSC Academic Standing Tutorial:

Spend a few minutes going through this tutorial which will explain how academic standing works at UCSC, and prompt you think about how you found yourself in this position. Complete the one page worksheet associated with the tutorial in this enterable PDF form, save it and retitled it using your full name, then submit it via email to Cowell College Advising. After doing so,  contact us to make an appointment to meet with an adviser to discuss your status.

Keep in mind that there are plenty of resources on campus to support students are struggling. Be sure to use them wisely! And of course, always come see us!