What Is Academic Dismissal?

Academic dismissal, sometimes called academic exclusion or dropped for poor scholarship, is the removal of a student from a college or university because they have not met the institution's minimum academic standards. It is the most serious academic standing outcome and usually follows a period of probation or suspension without sufficient improvement.

How it happens

Colleges set rules about GPA and progress. A student on probation who does not reach the required GPA, or a student who returns from suspension and falls below standards again, may be dismissed. Some programs, such as professional degrees, have strict minimums and may dismiss after a single serious failure.

Dismissal is typically communicated by letter, with an explanation of appeal rights and deadlines.

Consequences

• Enrollment ends and you cannot register for classes.
• Aid is withdrawn and you may owe money for the current term.
• Housing and campus activities are lost.
• Transcript: a notation may appear, and other colleges may see it.
• Visa status for international students is affected, so contact the international office immediately.

Appeals and readmission

Many colleges allow appeals based on exceptional circumstances, such as serious illness, a death in the family or an administrative error, with documentation. The deadline is often short. If the appeal is denied, you may still apply for readmission after a waiting period, commonly one to two years, showing what has changed. Colleges often ask for evidence of success elsewhere, such as completed courses with good grades, and a plan to succeed.

Options if dismissed

• Appeal, if you have grounds.
• Take courses at a community college to rebuild your record.
• Work, volunteer or address health or personal needs.
• Apply to another college, being honest about your history.
• Seek advice from an advisor, counselor or student advocate.
• Reassess goals, which may include a different program or a non-degree path.

Avoiding it

Act early when problems arise. Meet advisors, use tutoring, adjust your course load, ask for accommodations and get help for health or family issues. Withdraw from courses within deadlines if necessary, but check the effect on aid.

Related terms

See academic standing, academic suspension, satisfactory academic progress, withdrawal and ombudsperson.