II
S.09-75
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0 IF I C U 0 P TI I U
ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDE NT ACADEMIC AND ASSOCIATE PROVOST
MEMO
ATTENTION ?
Senate
FROM
?
Bill Krane, Chair
Senate Committee on Undergraduate Studies
RE
?
Changes to the SFU Calendar language (SCUS 09-321
ATE ?
ADrII 3. 2009
For information:
Acting under delegated authority at its meeting of April 2, 2009, SCUS
. ?
.
?
approved the following curriculum revisions:
1. Changes to the SFU Calendar language
(i) Changes to the sections in the SFU calendar to clarify language regarding
- repeat courses
- examinations
- grades tables
- explanations of grades and notations
Relevant information attached
.
il
SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY ?
THINKING OF THE WORLD
Repeated SFU Courses (new section)
Where a student repeats a course, the course(s) with the lower grade will be recorded on official records
as an excluded course. If the same grade or grade equivalent value is earned for a repeated course, the
course completed most recently is included in the term GPA and cumulative CPA, and the former course
is excluded in the term CPA and cumulative CPA. Excluded courses remain on the official record, but
are excluded in the calculation of the cumulative CPA. A student's academic standing for previous
semesters does not change even though the CPA changes.
When a course is repeated and the unit value has decreased, the student must, in consultation with the
department, make up the missing unit component before being credited with the full original units.
Limits on Repeat Courses
The number of courses which a student may repeat in a degree program is limited to a total of five. The
number of times a student may repeat a course is once. Courses completed at Simon Fraser University
for which a student has already received transfer credit from another institution will count within the
current limit of five repeats.
Students can only repeat Special Topics courses, which they have failed, when the topic is deemed to be
the same as the one for which the student has already received credit. Normally Special Topics courses
can be repeated because the course content changes with each offering.
Repeated SFU Course Transfer Units
•
Students may not receive transfer units for a course which is a repeat of a course taken and passed at
Simon Fraser University. At SFU, 'D' and above is a passing grade.
If a student enrolls for a repeat course, and completes the course with a passing grade, the transfer units
will remain on the academic record as a repeat, with a zero unit or unit value. If the course is completed
with a failing grade the transfer units will remain on the academic record. A department may permit
units to count for both a transfer course and a Simon Fraser University course, if the course content is
judged to be sufficiently different.
Current limits on course repeats, where one course is a Simon Fraser University course, will apply to
repeated transfer courses. The implementation of this policy will not affect the method of calculating
grade point averages. Current limits, on course repeats, where both courses are transfer credit will not
apply-
0
Grading/Standing Changes March 2009 1
Examinations
Final examinations will normally be held during the last two weeks of each term (Intersession and
Summer Session exams are held in the last week of the session). Examination period dates are outlined in
the Academic Calendar of Events,
and in the
Undergraduate Schedule of Classes and Examinations
hitg://students.sfu.ca/enrollment/schedule.html
Students must check the exam schedule when planning course selections. Students are reminded that
final examinations may be scheduled at any time during the examination period and that students
should avoid making travel or employment arrangements for this period. Students are not normally
allowed to enrol in courses with conflicting examination times. If you have a good reason to enroll in
classes with conflicting exam times, you must request the permission of the departments offering those
classes.
There are instances where students are faced with examination hardship. An examination hardship is
defined as:
1.
three or more end-of-term examinations scheduled within a 24-hour period.
2. an exam at one location (e.g. Burnaby) followed immediately by an exam at another location (e.g.
Surrey).
For three or more exams, a student shall be given a new examination date (within the established
examination period) for the second examination causing hardship by the respective instructor or
department/faculty. For students having exams at more than one location advance arrangements will
be made by the instructor or department/faculty to write both exams at a single location.
Students must notify the instructor(s) and the department no later than one month prior to the exam
dates. ?
S
Each student is required to participate in work assigned during the term. The marks obtained for work
during the term may be used to determine the final course standing. A passing grade in any exam does
not ensure a passing grade for the course.
Students who miss exams because of illness or for compassionate reasons must communicate with their
instructor. (See DE grade)
A student may not rewrite a final paper or examination unless he/she re-enrols for the course and fulfills
course requirements as outlined by the instructor.
In-class final examinations are not to be held before the beginning of the official examination period.
Take-home examinations cannot be due until the commencement of the official examination period.
Instructors are required to submit grades within 96 hours after the exam via the on-line grade roster, to
Records and Registration.
(Please refer to Exam Procedures
http: / /students.sfu.ca/academicintegritv/resources/examprocedures.html)
.
Grading/Standing Changes March 2009 2
Grading
0
The following three grading systems are used at Simon Fraser University.
Standard Grade System
.
Letter grade
Definition
Numerical equivalent
A+
A
Excellent performance
4.00
A-
3.67
B+
B
Good performance
3.00
B-
2.67
S
2.33
C
Satisfactory performance
2.00
C-
1.67
I)
Marginal performance
1.00
F
Fail
performance)
(Unsatisfactory
0.00
__________
FD
Fail (academic discipline)
0.00
N
Did
otherwise
not write
complete
final exam
courseor
000
Competency Based Grades
This grading system is based on satisfactory acquisition of defined skills or successful completion of the
course learning outcomes.
Lettergrade ?
Definition ?
Numerical equivalent
Pass (Satisfactory performance ?
no equivalent
or better)
F ?
Fail (Unsatisfactory ?
0.00 ?
performance)
I
FL) ?
I
?
Fail (academic discipline) ?
1
0.00
.
Grading/Standing Changes March 2009 3
Practicum Grades
This grading system is based on satisfactory completion of the practicum.
Letter grade
Definition
Numerical equivalent
Pass
(Satisfactory
performance
or better)
no equivalent
W
Withdrawn
no equivalent
Student Record and Transcript Notations
Notations are placed on a student's record to indicate a status or standing and provide additional
information to the student and the University. Notations do not impact a student's GPA.
Letter grade
Definition
Numerical equivalent
AE
Aegrotat standing,
compassionate pass
no equivalent
AU
Audit
no equivalent
CC
Course challenge
no equivalent
CF
Course challenge fail
no equivalent
CN
Did not complete challenge
no equivalent
CR
Credit granted
no equivalent
FX
Formal exchange/double
degree
no equivalent
II'
In progress
no equivalent
WD
Withdrawal
no equivalent
WE
Withdrawal under extenuating
circumstances
no equivalent
Temporary Grades
Temporary grades are assigned for specific circumstances and will convert to a final grade according to
the grading system being used in the course.
.
.
Letter grade ?
Definition ?
Numerical equivalent
DE ?
Deferred grade
?
no equivalent
GN ?
Grade not reported ?
no equivalent
IF ? In progress ?
no equiv77t
l
Note: Temporary Grades revert to one of the standard, competency or notations as above.
Grading/Standing Changes March 2009 4
.
Explanation of Standard Grades
FD
(Fail - Academic Discipline)
The letter grade FD is given by the chair of a department when a student has committed academic
dishonesty (see Policy S10.01 Appendix 3). The grade will stay on a student's transcript until two years
following graduation at which time it will convert to an F.
N
Grades (Incomplete)
The letter grade N is given when a student has enrolled for a course, but did not write the final
examination or otherwise failed to complete the required course work, and did not withdraw before the
deadline date. An N is equivalent to a 0.00 for purposes of academic standing.
A student receiving grade N must re-enrol for the course and participate in the course again, completing
courses requirements approved by the instructor, in order to achieve a different evaluation for the
course.
Explanation of Competency Based Grades
P Grades (Pass)
The designation P will be given when a student successfully completes a course graded on a pass (F) or
withdrawn (W) basis. The grade of Pass has no numerical equivalent and does not affect either the
term GPA or CGPA.
W Grades (Withdrawn)
The designation W will be given when a student is withdrawn after the course drop period for a course
graded on a pass (F) or withdrawn (W) basis. The grade of W has no numerical equivalent and does not
• affect either the term CPA or CGPA.
Explanation of Student Record and Transcript Notations
AE Grades (Aegrotat)
Aegrotat standing (AE) may be awarded in an incomplete course on medical or compassionate grounds
by the Registrar acting on the recommendation of the instructor or department chair. Written evidence
must substantiate a request for such standing; given the course requirements have been substantially
fulfilled. This evidence normally must be received by the Registrar or department within 96 hours of a
scheduled final examination or within 96 hours of the last day of term lectures for which such standing is
requested. Courses for which aegrotat standing is awarded are not included in the CPA calculation.
AU
Notation (Audit)
Audit is recorded when a student has approval from the department not to complete the course for
credit. The last day to audit a course is the end of week one of the term. Audited courses will not count
toward degree requirements.
CC Grades (Course Challenge Completed)
A student who has been enrolled for a course challenge is subject to an assessment equivalent to the final
examination for the course plus an interview which may include an oral and/or practical examination,
all to be arranged and approved by the chair of the department concerned. Departments are free to hold
course challenge examinations at any time after the start of the term. A performance equivalent to a
grade of C or higher in the course is required for a successful course challenge.
The department concerned must submit a report to the Registrar on or before the last day for submission
of regular grades in the course for that term indicating the final disposition for the course challenge in
the term. There is no provision for extension or deferral. Results will be recorded by departments as
Grading/Standing changes March 2009 5
successful, unsuccessful or un-attempted. Successful results will appear on transcripts of academic
record and statements of standing with the entry CC in the grade column and with units shown.
The grade of CC has no numerical equivalent and is not included in the calculation of grade point
average. The grade of CC may not be applied in any way toward application for scholarships, bursaries
or loans.
CF Grades (Challenge Failed)
The grade of CF is given for unsuccessful course challenge, when a student performs unsatisfactorily
and fails a course challenge. The grade has no numerical equivalent and is not included in the calculation
of grade point average.
CN Grades (Challenge not completed)
The grade of CN is given for un-attempted course challenge when a student is enrolled for a course
challenge, but never attended the course and did not withdraw before the deadline date. The grade has
no numerical equivalent and is not included in the calculation of grade point average.
CR Grades (Credit granted)
The credit granted notation is to recognize course work completed at another institution that is also
being granted credit towards a SFU degree program. The grade of CR has no numerical equivalent and
is not included in the GPA calculation. The CR grade may only be assigned by the Registrar's office and
is typically used for double degree programs.
FX Grades (Formal Exchange/Double Degree)
FX is assigned for formal exchange and double degree courses only. The grade of FX has no numerical
equivalent and is not included in the GPA calculation.
WD Notation (Withdrawal)
The notation WD identifies a course freely dropped by the student. The notationWD is not a grade and
does not affect the GPA. Different time periods are in effect for intersession and summer session. For
term specific dates, refer to the
Undergraduate Schedule of Classes and Examinations
httpi/students.sfu.ca/
WE Notations (Withdrawal for Extenuating Circumstances)
The notation WE identifies a course drop approved for extenuating circumstances normally during week 6
through to the end of week 12 of a term. The notation WE is not a grade and do not affect the GPA.
Extenuating circumstances are defined as unusual circumstances beyond the student's control which make
it impossible for the student to complete the course. Different time periods are in effect for intersession
and summer session. (For term specific dates, refer to the
Undergraduate Schedule of Classes and
http:/ /students.sfu.ca/
Explanation of Temporary Grades
DE Grades (Deferred)
A deferred grade is a temporary grade assigned at the end of term for incomplete course work. A
deferred grade will revert to a letter grade or notation. The DE notation can be issued in two
circumstances.
1.
A student must request a DE within 24 hours after the final examination date or final course work is
submitted on the basis of documented medical or compassionate grounds. Within four days the student
must also submit a physician's certificate or other document substantiating the request for deferral.
Failure to submit supporting documents may result in an "F" grade.
2.
The course instructor decides to defer submitting a final mark pending completion of further work by
a student(s).
All unchanged DE notations will be converted automatically to 'F' at the end of the first week in the
following term. In exceptional cases, an extension may be granted by the instructor; this extension must
be approved by the departmental chair and submitted in writing to the Registrar's office with a final
Grading/Standing Changes March 2009 6
deferral date. Normally the maximum extension allowed is the end of the term following the original
deferral. DE is a temporary grade that will revert to a letter grade or notation.
GN Notation (Grade not Reported)
The notation GN may be used if circumstances beyond the Instructor's or University's control make it
impossible for course grades to be assigned for the entire class. The notation has no numerical equivalent
and does not affect either the term grade point average (GPA) or cumulative grade point averages
(CGPA). The dean of the faculty responsible for the course shall advise the Registrar, in writing, that the
notation GN is required for a course until grades can be submitted. GN is a temporary grade that will
revert to a letter grade or notation.
IF Grades (In Progress)
A temporary grade assigned for incomplete practicum courses in the Faculty of Education. The grade of
IF has no numerical equivalent and is not included in the GPA calculation. IF grades will convert to P
or W.
Statement of Grades
At the end of each term, grades for that term are made available to students on the student information
system. Students not in good academic standing will be notified. Grade changes will be processed as
soon as possible.
Information concerning grades is not released to unauthorized persons without written consent of the
student.
Grade Point Averages
S
The grade point average (GPA) is a method of expressing the student's performance as a numerical
average. Each letter grade is assigned a numerical equivalent, which is then multiplied by the unit value
assigned to the course to produce the grade point. Grades without a numerical equivalent are not
included in the calculation of the grade point average.
Term grade point average (GPA) is computed by dividing the total number of grade points earned by
the total number of units completed in the term to the second decimal place
Letter Grade Numeric Value Units 'Grade Point
1 J ?
4.00 ?
3 112.00
1course 2
IA+
?
F ?
4.33
?
1
3 12.99
1!
e3
I
13
-
?
2.67
?
F-
318.01
Icourse41C
?
F ?
2.00
?
3 6.00
Ic 9 11 ! !
I
?
?
0.00 ?
4.00
Total. 16 39.00
term grade point average: 39/16
=
2.44
Cumulative grade point average (CGPA) expresses performance as a numerical average for all terms
completed and is closed in the term in which a degree or diploma is awarded by senate. A new CGPA
begins when a student returns for further studies following the awarding of a degree or diploma.
Grading/Standing
Changes March 2009
7
The CGPA is calculated by dividing the total number of grade points earned to date by the total number
of units undertaken to date to the second decimal place. The CGPA calculated for terms completed prior
to the fall term 1979 includes repeated courses.
Upper division grade point average (UDGPA) is calculated by dividing the total number of grade points
earned in upper division courses by the total number of units assigned for those courses, counting only
the higher grade in courses that have been repeated.
Standing Required for Continuance
Every student is expected to maintain an acceptable standard of scholarship. Specifically, a student must
maintain a minimum CGPA of 2.00. A student who does not do so shall be considered to be performing
unsatisfactorily in his/her studies. Standing required for continuation will be calculated after an attempt
of9 units atSF(J.
Academic Alert
A student whose term grade point average (GPA) falls below 2.00, but who is not placed on any of the
academic standings given below, should seek guidance at Academic Advising and Student Success.
Academic Probation
A student who has attempted at-least nine units and has a CGPA of less than 2.00 shall be placed on
academic probation (OAP). A student on academic probation may not enrol in a course overload. A
student on OAP standing may not receive a 'letter of permission' to attend another university or college.
A student on academic probation shall be evaluated at the end of each term. if at the end of the term•
the term GPA and the CGPA are each 2.00 or higher, the student shall be in good academic standing
the term GPA is 2.00 or higher, but the CGPA is less than 2.00, the student shall continue on academic
probation (CAP)
?
40
•
the term GPA is less than 2.00, but the CGPA is 2.00 or higher, the student shall continue on academic
probation (CAP). (This could occur if a student repeats a course.)
•
both the term GPA and the CGPA are less than 2.00, the student shall be required to withdraw (RTW)
from the university or, if previously required to withdraw (RTW), shall be placed on extended
withdrawal (PW)
Required to Withdraw
A student may be required to withdraw (RTW) after one or more terms on academic probation (see
'outcomes for a student on academic probation' below). A student on RTW standing may not receive a
'letter or permission' to attend another university of college.
Extended Withdrawal
A student may be placed on extended withdrawal (PW) after she/he is required to withdraw (RTW), is
readmitted and subsequently is on academic probation for one or more terms (see
Outcomes for a Student
on Academic Probation
below). A student on extended withdrawal (l'W) standing may not receive a 'letter
of permission' to attend another university or college.
Options for Required to Withdraw Students
• Apply for entry to the Student Success Program and an extension to the academic probation period
(refer to 'Extended Academic Probation for First Time RTW Students' section below)
Grading/Standing
Changes March 2009 8
• Apply for readmission based on subsequent completion of transferable courses from another
institution (refer to 'Readmission after Required to Withdraw' section below)
Note: Students who choose to attend another institution subsequent to being Required to Withdraw for
purposes of applying for readmission are not eligible for entry to the Student Success Program
Extended Academic Probation for First Time RTW Students
A student who is required to withdraw for the first time may be eligible for entry to the Student Success
Program, a two-term academic success program focusing on academic and learning skill development
with concurrent enrollment in credit courses. Students cannot exceed nine units (unless special
permission is received in advance from the Program), and may not receive a 'letter of permission' to
attend another post-secondary institution while in the Program. Entry requirements are set out by the
Program and details are available through the Student Success Program Office. Acceptance and
participation in the Program provides students an extended academic probation period. A student can
only attempt the Program once in their academic career; normally, withdrawal and/or unsuccessful
completion of the Program constitutes one attempt.
Evaluation and Continuance Requirements during Extended Academic Probation
To participate and continue in the Program, students are required to fulfill all required components of
the Program in each of the two terms. Evaluation of a student's progress occurs throughout the duration
of the Program and at the end of each term. Students deemed not to be meeting the requirements at any
time during the Program, academic and/or non-academic, will be withdrawn from
. the Program,
dropped from enrolled courses, and will be Required to Withdraw from the University.
0
Outcomes for a Student on Extended Academic Probation
End of Term One
• the SGPA and the CGPA are each 2.00 or higher, the student shall be in good academic standing
• the SGPA is 2.00 or higher, but the CGPA is less than 2.00, the student shall continue on academic
probation
• the SGPA is less than 2.00, but the CGPA is 2.00 or higher, the student shall continue on academic
probation. (This could occur if a student repeats a course.)
• both the SGPA and the CGPA are less than 2.00, the student shall be required to withdraw (RTW) from
the university unless student has satisfactory participation in the Program.
End of Term Two
Evaluation of academic standing reverts to the academic standing and continuance policy that applies to
students not on extended academic probation.
Grade Point Averages Needed for Graduation
Grade point averages (GPAs) used for graduation are the minimum GPAs that must be achieved to
satisfy the requirements for a degree or other credential. The graduation GPA must be obtained both on
the overall course work (CGPA) as well as on the upper division subset of that work (UDGPA).
In addition, program GPAs are the minimum GPAs that must be obtained to satisfy the requirements of
an honors, major, extended minor or minor program. In each case, the program GPA must be obtained
both on the overall course work (CGPA) as well as on the upper division subset of that work (UDGPA)
.
in the program area.
The graduation and program GPAs specified below are University minimum requirements; individual
faculties and departments may, with senate approval, have higher requirements.
Grading/Standing Changes March 2009 9
In the event of repeated courses, only the higher grade is used in these GPA calculations.
Overall minimum requirements for all
courses (CGPA)
and
for all upper division
courses (IJDGPA) completed at Simon
Fraser University
joint honors
degree* ?
3.00
honors
degree* ?
3.00
general degrees
?
2.00
certificates ?
2.00
post baccalaureate ?
2.50
diplomas
wiiimmmlimimli
Program Plan minimum requirements for
all courses
and for
all upper division
courses completed in the program area
joint honors* ?
3.00
honors* ?
3.00
joint majors ?
2.00
major
?
2.00
extended minors
?
2.00
minors ?
2.00
*de
J
who have obtained a GPA of 3.5
or greater
in
both the graduation and
program categories specified above will
receive the
?
nation of Joint Honors or.
Honors
desig
(First Class).
Convocation
Convocation is held in June and October annually. Students who fulfill their degree requirements during
the fall or spring terms attend the June ceremony. Graduates of the summer term attend the October
ceremony.
Application for Graduation/Granting of Degree, Certificate or Diploma
Each candidate for a degree, certificate, or diploma must formally apply for graduation.
Notification of Award by Senate
Following Senate approval each student who has been awarded a degree, certificate or diploma will
receive a letter of confirmation from the Registrar.
For information on how to apply to graduate and for specific deadlines or ceremony dates, please visit
http: / /students.sfu.ca/convocation ?
0
.
.
Grading/Standing Changes March 2009 10
30 Student Enrolment
• Student Enrolment
.
S
Enrolment is the process of formally assigning and
recording a student's enrolment in a course(s).
Enrolment is open only to those who have been
admitted or readmitted to Simon Fraser University, or
who are eligible for reactivation. An exception is that
special audit students need not be formally admitted
before enrolment (see page 244).
Under the trimester system a student must enrol for
any combination of terms or sessions during an
academic year. Students have access to the
enrolment system based on the number of units
completed and in progress, and on the student's
cumulative grade point average. Students are
assigned an appointment date and time when access
is activated.
Note:
The enrolment procedure for designated
off-campus programs and distance education courses
is the same as for on-campus courses. Specific
program details are available in brochures published
each term, See 'Continuing Studies' on page 244.
Information about how to enrol and details about the
day, time, place and instructor for courses is provided
in the Undergraduate Schedule of
Classes and
Examinations
and on the web at httpJlsis.sfu.ca
. The
University reserves the right to change arrangements
without notice although it will endeavor to inform
students who are affected by such changes.
Library/Identification Card
A student library/identity
,
card is provided to enrolled
or enrolled students. This card is required when
borrowing books from the Library and for other
on-campus identification purposes. In the event that
this card is lost, destroyed or damaged, a
replacement card may be obtained from Student
Services upon payment of a fee.
Academic Advising and
Student Success
3200 Maggie Benston Student Services Centre,
778.782.4356 Tel, 778.782.4969 Fax,
http'J/students.sfu.ca.
Monday to Thursday 9 am —6
pm. Friday 10 am - 4:30 pm
This office provides advice for newly admitted and
continuing first and second year students who have
not declared a specialization (a major, minor, double
major, joint major or an honors program [see page 6)).
Academic advisors assist with course selection and
program planning in any of the six faculties (applied
sciences, arts and social sciences, business
administration, education, health sciences, and
science). Special advisors will assist students in
academic difficulty to provide assistance about
policies related to academic standing and
continuance, course withdrawals, readmission after
being required to withdraw due to poor academic
performance, and retroactive withdrawals
applications.
Definitions
The following are the most commonly used terms that
new students may find confusing.
Students
Simon Fraser University does not classify students as
either full time or part time although there are varying
course load requirements for many types of financial
aid (see "Financial Aid and Awards
-
on page 41).
intersession: May - June
summer session: July - August
To increase the accessibility of the summer program
(May-August) to teachers and others, the summer
term is enriched by two, two-month sessions called
intersession (May-June) and summer session
(July-August). These programs are offered in addition
to the regular four month summer term.
Term Codes
The PeopleSoft student administration system used
at Simon Fraser University uses numeric codes for
terms. Students will often encounter these codes
when using hflpsl/sis.sfu.ca
, the on-line student
services portal. Here are the term codes for the
upcoming year.
• 1087 fall 2008
- 1091 = spring 2009
- 1094 summer 2009
The codas can be interpreted as follows:
-1 represents the 21st century
-08=year
the final digit is the term: 1 for spring. 4 for summer
and 7 for fall.
Levels
Undergraduates in Canada are traditionally classified
as first year (freshman), second year (sophomore),
third year (junior), or fourth year (senior) students.
Since 'year' does not apply to the trimester system,
the student's progression is expressed in levels.
'Level' refers to the status of a student's program.
Each level normally equals one term's work with a full
course load; a typical four year bachelor's degree
program consists of eight levels. The first four (i.e.,
the first 60 units) are tower divisions. Levels 5 and
above are upper divisions. The term 'level' is not used
for graduate programs. Usually students in levels I
and 2 complete 100 series courses; those in levels 3
and 4 complete 200 series courses; those beyond
level 4 complete 300 and400 series courses.
Continuing Students
Students who enrolled for one or more of the last
three terms and who are eligible to continue will be
advised of enrolment procedures and deadlines well
in advance of each term.
Former Students
Under certain conditions, former students submit
formal application for readmission in order to continue
academic studies at the University (see 'Admission
and Readmission' on page 17).
New Students
After the application for admission has been
assessed, the applicant will be advised of admission.
If admitted, the student receives instruction on the
procedure to enrol for courses.
Qualifying Student
See '13.6 Admission as a Qualifying Student' on
page 252.
Regular Student
A regular student is one proceeding to a degree,
diploma or certificate in any faculty. A regular student
may already hold one or more bachelor's degrees.
Special Audit Student
Students who do not apply for University admission
under the general admission regulations but who wish
to audit credit courses may be given entry as special
audit students. Special application procedures apply.
see 'Special Audit Student" on page 244.
Special Student
A student already holding a first degree may, as a
special student, enrol in undergraduate courses only.
Credit for these courses may not be applied toward
completion of any certificate, diploma, undergraduate
or graduate credential at Simon Fraser University.
First time applicants wishing to enrol as special
students and students holding a first degree who have
previously attended Simon Fraser University should
see 'Admission and Readmission' on page 17.
Visiting and Exchange Students
A visiting student is a bona fide student of another
accredited institution who is permitted to complete
credit courses only toward a degree, certificate or
diploma at the home institution. Applicants who wish
to become visiting students must meet all admission
requirements and must submit a letter of permission
from the registrar of the home institution. A visiting
student wishing to become a regular Simon Fraser
University student must reapply and meet admission
requirements in effect at that time.
Academic Year
Trimester
Simon Fraser University offers three full terms or
semesters within the twelve month calendar year
Term
The calendar year is divided into three academic
terms of 16 weeks each. Each term has its own
enrolment and final examinations. All academic
courses in this Calendar are one term long or fall into
one of the shorter sessions, such as intersession or
summer session. Students may enter at the beginning
of any term and attend one, two or three terms in a
year. By attending continuously, it is possible for a
student who entered from BC high school grade 12
(or equivalent) in the fall 2008 term to graduate with a
bachelor's degree at the end of the spring 2011 term.
The following illustrates an academic year.
fall term: September - December
spring term: January - April
summer term: May - August
Simon Fraser University 2008 • 2009 Calendar
?
II.
Student Enrolment 31
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Courses
Subject
A subject (or discipline) is a body of knowledge with
arbitrary boundary lines, e.g. philosophy, chemistry or
psychology. For convenience, professors of a subject
are usually grouped together in a department
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a requirement needed to enrol in a
course.
Corequisite
A corequisite is a course to be completed at the same
time as another course.
Division
Division relates to undergraduate courses: those
numbered 001 to 299 inclusive are lower division
courses; those numbered 300 to 499 are upper
division courses. Graduate courses are numbered in
the 500 to 999 series. In certain instances, upper
division courses may be completed in the lower levels
and lower division courses in the upper levels. Refer
to specific regulations pertaining to requirements for
degrees, certificates or diplomas.
Course Numbering
Each subject is divided into courses usually offered in
term length units. Each course is identified by a
subject name followed by a course number, the
number of units, and course title, e.g. ENGL 103-3
Introduction to Drama. The first course number digit
represents the division of the course; the fourth digit
indicates the units. For example, ENGL. 103-3 is a first
division course offering three units.
Lectures, Tutorials and Laboratories
Although there are variations among departments.
instruction in lower division courses combines a large
lecture section with small tutorial groups. The large
lecture enables as many students as possible to hear
the very best teachers. The small tutorial groups
provide more personal instruction and an opportunity
for discussion of readings and lecture material. A
typical course consists of two lectures and one tutorial
a week. Notable exceptions are the sciences and
languages, where a laboratory may be involved.
Credit Courses
These courses carry units and count toward the total
required for a degree, certificate or diploma, subject
to the regulations governing the credential.
Credit Hours
See linits below.
Units
Units, formerly known as credits, are assigned to
each course; most have three units. A normal course
load for full attendance in a term is 15 units.
Requirements for credentials (e.g., degrees, diplomas
and certificates) are partially expressed as units.
The unit weight is shown for each course as follows.
subject: Mathematics (MATH)
course number 232
units: 3
Credit-Free Courses
These courses carry no credit and do not count
toward a degree, certificate or diploma. At times, they
are termed non-credit courses.'
Additive Credit
In courses deemed to have additive credit, the units
do not count towards
the
total units required for a
degree.
Distance Education Courses
Many courses are available as distance education
courses. The majority of these are print-based. Some
may also have audio and/or video support.
Increasingly, educational technologies (e.g. computer
conferericing) are being incorporated as courses are
developed and revised. The program parallels the
campus term system of the University, with the same
16 week period for course completion. For more
information, see Centre for Online and Distance
Education on page 245.
Obligation to Declare Majors,
Minors or Other Areas of
Specialization
Students are expected to obtain formal approval to
enter an area of specialization by the time they have
earned 60 units. 'Specialization' is a term used to
cover programs such as majors, minors, double
majors, honors, minors, extended minors, etc.. and
'department' refers to the faculty or department or
school or unit responsible for a program. There are
some other programs (e.g., post baccalaureate
diplomas, certificates) which may have some
additional instruction regarding procedure since the
students in these programs fall outside the usual flow
of units.
Undeclared
This category will be used for any student who, prior
to the successful completion of the 61st unit, has not
recorded an intended specialization. Academic
advising for undeclared students is available from
Academic Advising and Student Success.
Approved
This category identifies the specialization of a student
who has been formally approved by the department
or signing authority for that specialization and may be
granted at the discretion of a department or signing
authority. This must be done by the 61st unit.
Academic advising for approved students is the
responsibility of the department offering the approved
specialization(s).
Course Loads
The following maximum course loads apply to all
students, but certain students may be granted
permission by their respective faculties to enrol in
course overloads (see below).
Regular Session
The maximum course load for all students who are
not enrolled for summer session courses only, or
intersession courses only and who are not entering
their graduating term is as follows:
Applied Sciences, Arts and Social Sciences,
Business Administration or Science -
18 units
Engineering Science
—22 units (permission of
of the
director is required for course loads below 15 units).
Education —
20 units
Intersession or Summer Session Only
Students enrolling for the intersession or summer
session only, may not enrol in programs having a total
value in excess of nine units, except where course
combinations may require enrolment in a program of
10 units; however, no student will be permitted to
undertake a program of more than 10 units of work
Summer Term, Intersession, Summer
Session Combinations
The normal course load limits apply to students who
enrol in combinations of the above. For purposes of
course load values only, in the regular summer term
the course load value corresponds to the units
allocated for the course. In the intersession or
summer session, the course load value is twice the
unit credit shown for the course. (This arises because
in the shorter session classes must meet twice as
often or for longer periods to equal the time of the
regular term.)
Therefore in calculating course load value, note the
following example.
Course Overloads
No student who is on academic probation may enrol
in a course overload.
In the Faculty of Applied Sciences, approved majors
who wish to enrol in an overload require permission of
the director of their school. Other Faculty of Applied
Sciences students require permission of the dean of
the faculty. In the School of Engineering Science,
permission of the director is required for course
overloads exceeding 22 units.
In the Faculties of Arts and SocialSciences, Business
Administration, and Education only, a student who
requires an overload to fulfil graduation requirements
in the term for which he/she is enrolling may be
allowed, with the dean's permission, to enrol in an
overload.
In the Faculty of Science, a student entering the
graduating term who requires specific courses to fulfil
graduation requirements in the term for Which the
student is enrolling, may be permitted to enrol in
courses totalling up to 21 units, provided either the
cumulative grade point average or the most recent
term grade point average is 3.0 or higher.
A limited number of overloads may be approved by
the dean of the faculty in which the student is enrolled
on an individual basis during the course change
period.
Limits on Duplication of Courses
The number of courses which a student may repeat in
a degree program is limited to five. Courses
completed at Simon Fraser University for which a
student has already received transfer credit from
another institution will count within the current limit of
five repeats. This limit may be extended by the dean
of the faculty.
Students who intend to enrol in their sixth or
subsequent repeat course should seek advice from
their major department or Academic Advising before
submitting their requests for extension of the limit to
their respective dean.
No individual course may be repeated more than
once except with the permission of the department
offering the course. Students wishing to enrol in a
course for the third or subsequent time should consult
an advisor in the department.
Students can only duplicate Special Topics courses
when the topic is deemed to be the same as the one
for which the student has already received credit.
Repeated Transfer Credit
Students may not receive transfer credit for a course
which is a repeat of a course passed at Simon Fraser
University.
If a student enrolls for a repeat course, and completes
the course with a passing grade, the transfer credit
will remain on the academic record as a repeat, with a
zero credit or unit value. If the course is completed
.
1a.
?
Simon Fraser University 2008 • 2009 Calendar
32 Student Enrolment
.
.
with a failing grade, or is dropped, the transfer credit
will remain on the academic record. A department
may permit credit to count for both a transfer course
and a Simon Fraser University course, if the course
content is judged to be sufficiently different.
Current limits on course repeats, where one course is
a Simon Fraser University course,
Will apply to
repeated transfer courses. The implementation of this
policy will not affect the method of calculating grade
point averages. See 'Credit for the Term' on page 34.
Courses at Other
Institutions/Letters of Permission
Simon Fraser University students who wish to
complete academic work at other institutions for
undergraduate degree, diploma or certificate credit at
this University must obtain permission in advance
from their department chair (if a major has been
declared) and the Faculty dean. Students in a
non-seeking degree program who wish to complete
academic work at other institutions for credit must first
obtain program approval into an undergraduate
degree, diploma or certificate program from the
appropriate department and faculty. The appropriate
form may be obtained from Student Services. When.
approval has been granted, Student Services will
issue a Letter of Permission to the institution which
the student plans to attend, if required by that
institution. A student on academic probation or RIW
(required to withdraw) may not receive a fetter of
permission to attend another university.
Except as noted below, total transfer and course
challenge units may not exceed 60 units and not more
than 15 transfer units may be used toward upper
division requirements. Each diploma and certificate
program has its own specific limit, and students
should consult the appropriate Calendar section for
such restrictions. Within these limits and limits on
course repeals and duplicate transfer credit, credit
may be transferred for all courses passed with a C
grade (2.0 numeric equivalent) for institutions
reporting on a letter grade basis, or 60% for
institutions reporting on a percentage grading basis,
or higher, and which are acceptable under the
University's transfer policies. Transfer credit is not
used in the calculation of the cumulative grade point
average. See "Admission and Readmission' on
page 17 for transfer credit information.
For information concerning maximum transfer credit
pertaining to EDUC 4011402, 405. see "Transfer
Credit" on page 206.
For students working toward a bachelor of general
studies degree, special regulations provide more
units of transfer credit from a degree granting
institution recognized by Simon Fraser University.
Please see "Transfer Credit Regulations" on
page 135.
Students who are pursuing a bachelor of applied
science degree in engineering science should see
'School of Engineering Science' on page 120.
Students participating in formal exchange programs
may receive exchange credit for courses completed
at the host university with a passing grade.
See "SFU International* on page 483 for more
information.
• course challenge is not permitted for a course for
which credit has already been obtained at Simon
Fraser University or'
hrough transfer credit. A
student may not enrol in one term for both regular
enrolment and course challenge in the same course
at the same lime, but must select one or the other,
and may not change that decision in that term later
than ten days following the commencement of
University classes
• a student is not entitled to enrol for course challenge
if he/she has recorded two challenges as either
unsuccessful or unattempted
• a student is not permitted to challenge a course(s)
he/she has previously failed at Simon Fraser
University
• course challenge is not included in the grade point
average
• units through course challenge do not count towards
term units or units for government student
assistance programs (e.g., Canada Student Loan,
BC Student Loan, etc.) or Simon Fraser University
administered financial assistance programs
including scholarships, bursaries, awards and loans
• a department may elect to offer or not to offer the
opportunity for course challenge
Please note the following with regard to course
challenges in the Department of French and in the
Latin American Studies Program.
With approval, a student may enrol and pay fees for
challenge in a specified sequence of courses in a
given language. If the student satisfactorily completes
a course in the given language at an advanced level
of the sequence, the department may indicate
successful' in the preceding course(s) of the
sequence in which the student is enrolled for
challenge. If the student does not satisfactorily
complete the course at the advanced level, then
formal challenge assessment of the preceding
level(s) should be undertaken to avoid two challenges
without success based solely on the advanced
assessment.
Enrolment for Course Challenge
Any eligible student who wishes to enrol for course
challenge must obtain an official course challenge
enrolment form from Student Services or the
academic department, seek approval of the
appropriate department chair to enrol for course
challenge in that department, and return the
completed form to Student Services or the academic
department by the tenth day following
commencement of classes. Normally, a student may
not complete enrolment for course challenge after the
end of the tenth day of classes. During the first ten
days-of classes, a student may change enrolment in
course challenge from one course to another or to
regular enrolment in courses, but may not withdraw
from course challenge without substitution of regular
course enrolment. Alter the tenth dayof classes, no
further course challenge changes wit be permitted.
Course Audit
A student who has satisfied the admission
requirements of the University may attend a specific
course(s) as an auditor upon completion of the
necessary enrolment procedures, which include
written approval of the department concerned.
Audit will be recorded as 'AU' on a student transcript if
the student fulfills the requirements agreed to by the
student and the instructor at the time of enrolment
Minimally, these requirements should comprise
regular attendance at class meetings, completion of
readings and participation in class activities. Audited
courses will not count towards degree requirements.
During the normal course change period a student
may change enrolment in course audit from one
Course Changes
You are urged to read the tuition refund policy and
penalties for dropping courses very carefully to avoid,
or minimize, financial penalty for dropping courses in
which you enrol. Details of the policy, and deadlines,
appear in
the
Undergraduate Fees
section of the
Calendar and, also in the
Undergraduate
Schedule
of
(http://sis.sfu.ca ).
Failure
to
attend classes does not constitute withdrawal from
a
course.
Courses that are not formally dropped will
be given a failing grade; payment for the course's
tuition fee is required.
Term Course Changes
The
Undergraduate Schedule of Classes and
http://sis.sfu.ca
) that is published in pdf
format each term contains detailed instruction on the
procedures, and term specific deadline dates to be
followed, to change courses during the enrolment
process and after the start of classes. The deadline
dates may vary for the intersession and summer
session.
Summer Session and Intersession Course
Changes
For course change information in the intersession and
summer session, refer to the summer term
Undergraduate Schedule of
Classes
and
(http:/Isis.sfu.ca ).
Normal Course Change Period
Regular Term - Class Days 1-5
Courses may be added or dropped or tutorial times
changed using the enrolment system without prior
approval of the department offering the course.
Courses that are dropped will not receive a notation
on the students academic record.
Changes to courses registered for course challenge
or for course audit must be approved by the
department offering the course. During this time
period a student may change enrolment in course
challenge from one course to another, or to regular
enrolment in the course.
Enrolment for course audit, course challenge and
course changes must be done in person at the
department offering the course.
Extended Course Change Period
Regular Term -
Class Days
6-15
After the fifth day of classes to the 15th day of
classes, courses may be added Only with special
permission of the chair and instructor concerned. No
courses can be added or changed to audit status after
this time. Courses may be dropped without notation
on the student's academic record. However, if a
student drops all courses for the term, the withdrawal
will be noted on the academic record. A student may
not withdraw from course challenge without
course to another, or to regular enrolment in the
course, or from regular enrolment to course audit.
Normally, no further enrolment in course audit will be
permitted after the extended course change period
has ended. For information on fees assessed for
course audit, see 'General Regulations' on page 36.
Note: Course audit and special audit are for different
categories of students. Those interested in gaining
entry as special audit students should see "Special
Audit Student' on page 30.
Program/Course Changes and
Withdrawal
Program Changes
Any program changes require departmental approval
on the program approval form available from the
major department or on the Student Services websile
at http:/!students.sfu.calforms.
Course Challenge
Course challenge is a method by which a student may
. ?
obtain credit for course material learned elsewhere
(i.e. outside Simon Fraser University). A maximum of
60 units may be obtained by the combined
mechanism of course challenge and transfer credit.
A student must be eligible to enrol in order to enrol for
course challenge.
Simon Fraser University 2008 • 2009 Calendar
?
13.
Student Enrolment 33
substitution of a regular course enrolment. During the
first ten days of classes, he/she may change
enrolment in course challenge from one course to
another, or to regular enrolment in the course.
Permission of the department is required.
Course Drop Period
Regular Term -
Class Days
16-25
No courses can be added or changed to audit status
after the fifteenth day of classes.
After the 15th to the 25th day of classes, courses may
be dropped by the Student via the web at
http'JIsis.sfu.ca.
Courses dropped within this period
will be automatically recorded with a WD notation on
the student's academic record. Students can apply to
drop courses for extenuating circumstances at this
time and if approved, the notation will be WE rather
than WD.
During the sixth to twelfth week of classes a course or
courses may be dropped only in extenuating
circumstances. If approved, there will be a notation
WE on the student's academic record for specific
courses dropped. Applications must be made to
Student Services. Requests arising after the twelfth
week, or requests relating to courses completed in a
Previous term, are referred to as 'retroactive' and
follow the same procedures as above but may take
longer to adjudicate.
Note: Extenuating circumstances are defined as
unusual circumstances beyond the student's control
which make it impossible for the student to complete
the course. If a course drop is being considered after
the 12th week of classes, it is recommended that
students seek advice from Academic Advising or their
department advisor.
Withdrawals from the University
Students wishing to withdraw from all courses in a
term must follow the same schedule as outlined
above in Term Course Changes. Specific term dates
can be found in (http://sis.sfu.ca
).
Official records will be updated to record the date on
which withdrawal from the term was effected. The
date of withdrawal for students who withdraw after the
filth day of classes will be recorded on the student's
academic record.
Examinations
Final examinations will
normally be held during the
last two weeks of each term. Examination period
dates are outlined in the
Academic Calendar of
Events,
and in the
Undergraduate Schedule of
Classes
and
Examinations
(httpJ/students,sfu.ca/
enrollmentjschedulej,tml), Students must check the
exam schedule when planning course selections.
Students are reminded that final examinations may be
scheduled at any time during the examination period
and that students should avoid making travel or
employment arrangements for this period. The
student is not allowed to enrol in courses with
conflicting examination times.
Each student is expected to participate in work
assigned during the term. The marks obtained for
work during the term may be used to determine the
final course standing. A passing grade in any exam
does not ensure a passing grade for the course.
Students who miss exams because of illness or for
compassionate reasons must obtain a physician's
certificate or other supporting documents to obtain
consideration in the course. Such documents must be
filed with the department chair or registrar within four
days of the date on which the examination was to
have been written. The appropriate form is available
at httpJ/studerrts.sfu.ca/Iorrns.
A student may not rewrite (or write, in the case of
receiving an N grade) a paper unless he/she re-enrols
for the course and participates in the course as
required by the instructor.
In-class final examinations are not to be held before
the beginning of the official examination period.
Take-home examinations cannot be due until the
commencement of the official examination period.
Grades
IScale
The
student is awarded a final grade at the end of
the term for each credit course. Each grade will•.
appear on the student's record a áieberrade and
nth'nericatequi'alentasfollows.
_____
Letter
?
Numerical
grade
?
Definition ?
equivalent
A+ ?
47r-
A ?
Excellent performance ?
4.00
A- ?
3.67
3.33
B
Good performance
3.00
B-
2.67
Satisfactory performance
2.33
2.00
C.
1.67
D
Marginal performance
1.00
F
Unsatisfactory performance
0.00
(fail)
Satisfactory performance or no equivalent
better _(pass,_ungraded)
CC
Course challenge
no equivalent
CN
Did not complete challenge no equivalent
CF
Course challenge fail
no equivalent
AE
Aegrotat standing,
no equivalent
compassionate pass
DE
Deferred grade
no equivalent
FX
Formal exchange
no equivalent
GN
Grade not reported
no equivalent
N
Did not write final exam or
0.00
otherwise complete course
W
Withdrawn
no equivalent
AU
Audit
no equivalent
CR
Credit without grade
no equivalent
WD
Withdrawal
no equivalent
WE
Withdrawal under
no equivalent
extenuating circumstances
-
IP
In progress
no equivalent
Note
Creditisgrantedfor.A+ A.A B+ B B- C+
C C- PD CC AE CR Nocredit,sgrantedforF
N DEW AU WD WE, FX, IP CF CN
Scale Changes
In the first two terms (65-3, 66-1). A- and C+ grades
were awarded; these grades were discontinued with
the third (66-2) term, as was the T (standing granted)
grade. A- and C+ were re-established with the 67.3
term, discontinued in 79-2 term and re-established in
79-3.
Prior to fall term 1979, numerical equivalents
assigned to grades differed from those given above
as follows: A+ and A- = 4.00; B+ and B- = 3.00; C+
and C- = 2.00.
Explanation
of
Grades/Notations
AE Grades
Aegrotat standing (AE) in an incomplete course may
be awarded on medical or compassionate grounds by
the registrar acting on the recommendation of the
instructor or department chair concerned when
written evidence is submitted to substantiate a
request for such standing, and when the course
requirements for credit have been substantially
fulfilled. This evidence normally must be received by
the registrar or department within 96 hours of a
scheduled final examination or within 96 hours of the
last day of term lectures for which such standing is
requested. Courses for which aegrotat standing is
awarded are not included in the GPA calculation.
AU Notation
Audit will be recorded as AU on a student transcript if
the student fulfils the requirements agreed by the
student and the department at the time of enrolment
Minimally, these requirements should comprise
regular attendance at class meetings, completion of
readings and participation in class activities. Audited
courses will not count toward degree requirements. At
the end of term, unsuccessful or unattempted results
will not appear on transcripts of academic record or
statements of standing but will be held by the Office of
the Registrar in internal records.
CC Grades
A student who has been enrolled for a course
challenge is subject to an assessment equivalent to
the final &xamination for the course plus an interview
which may include an oral and/or practical
examination all to be arranged and approved by the
chair of the department concerned. Departments are
free to hold course challenge examinations at any
time during the term after the formal period of
enrolment for course challenge. A performance
equivalent to a grade of C or higher in the course is
required for a successful course challenge.
The department concerned must submit a report to
the registrar on or before the last day for submission
of regular grades in the course for that term indicating
the final disposition for the course challenge in the
term. There is no provision for extension or deferral.
Results will be recorded by departments as
successful, unsuccessful or unatterripted. Successful
results will appear on transcripts of academic record
and statements of standing with the entry CC in the
grade column and with credit shown.
The grade of CC has no numerical equivalent and is
not included in the calculation of grade point average.
The grade of CC may not be applied in any way
toward application for scholarships, bursaries or
loans.
CF Grades
The grade of CF is given when a student performs
unsatisfactorily and fails a course challenge. The
grade has no numerical equivalent and is not included
in the calculation of grade point average.
CN Grades
The grade of CN is given when a student is enrolled
for a course challenge, but did not write the final
examination or otherwise failed to complete the
course work and did not withdraw before the deadline
date. The grade has no numerical equivalent and is
not included in the calculation of grade point average.
CR Grades
The grade 01CR has no numerical equivalent and is
not included in the GPA calculation. The CR grade
may be assigned in certain special cases.
DE Grades
The DE notation will be given when a physician's
certificate or other document substantiating a request
for deferment on medical or compassionate grounds
is received by the registrar or the chair of the
department concerned within four days of the date
from which the final examination was to have been
written, or when the course instructor wishes to defer
submitting a final mark pending completion of further
work by the student The DE notation must be
submitted by the instructor with a recommended
length of deferral and approved by the chair. All
.
.
f4L ?
Simon Fraser University 2008 • 2009 Calendar
.
.
34 Student Enrolment
unchanged DE notations will be converted
automatically to F after the fifth day of classes of the
term immediately following the one in which the
notation was awarded. In exceptional cases, an
extension may be granted by the department chair
upon petition by the student
FXGrades
The grade of FX has no numerical equivalent and is
not included in the CPA calculation. FX is assigned
for formal exchange courses only.
GN Notation
The notation GN (grade not reported) may be used if
circumstances beyond the University's control make it
impossible for course grades to be assigned. The
notation has no numerical equivalent and does not
affect either the term grade point average (CPA) or
cumulative grade point averages (CGPA). The dean
of the faculty responsible for the course shalt advise
the registrar, in writing, that the notation GN is
approved for a course or for a particular group of
students in a course.
IP Grades
The grade of lP has no numerical equivalent and is
not included in the CPA calculation. lP is assigned in
certain Education courses.
N Grades
The letter grade N is given when a student has
enrolled for a course, but did not write the final
examination or otherwise failed to complete the
course work, and did not withdraw before the
deadline date. An N is considered an F for purposes
of scholastic standing.
A student receiving grade N must re-enrol for the
course and participate in the course again, as
required by the instructor, in order to achieve a
different evaluation for the course.
P and W Grades
The grades of P and W have no numerical equivalent
and do not affect either the SGPA or CGPA. The
designation W will be given when a student withdraws
(or is withdrawn) after the course drop period for a
course graded on a pass (P) or withdrawn (W) basis.
WD and WE Notations
The notations WD and WE are not grades and do not
affect either the GPA or CGPA. The notation WD
identifies a course freely dropped by the student. The
notation WE identifies a course drop approved for
extenuating circumstances normally during week 6
through to the end of week 12 of a term. Extenuating
circumstances are defined as unusual circumstances
beyond the studenfs control which make it impossible
for the student to complete the course. Different time
periods are in effect for intersession and summer
session. (For more complete details refer to Course
Drop Period" on page 33.) For term specific dates,
refer to
the
Undergraduate Schedule of Classes
and
Examinations (httpi/students.sfu.ca ).
Credit for the Term
All credit earned for the term will be granted,
regardless of the grade point average (GPA) for the
term. Credit may be granted for a specific
course/topic once only. Where a student repeats a
course, the course(s) with the tower grade will be
recorded on official records as an excluded course. If
the same grade or grade equivalent value is earned
for a repeated course, the course completed most
recently is included in the term GPA and cumulative
CPA, and the former course is excluded in the term
GPA and cumulative CPA. Excluded courses remain
on the official record, and are excluded in the
calculation of the cumulative
CPA.
See Repeated
Transfer Credir on page 31.
Statement
of
Grades
Al the end of each term, grades for that term are
made available to enrolled students in good financial
standing on the enrolment system. Notifications of
grades and academic standing will be mailed to
students not in good academic standing. Errors in
grades will be corrected as soon as possible.
Information concerning final grades is not released to
unauthorized persons without written consent of the
student.
Grade Point Averages
The term grade point average (CPA) is a method of
expressing the student's performance for the term as
a numerical average. Each letter grade (except
grades/notations P. W, CC, CN, CF. AU, AE, CR, FX,
GN, DE, WO, WE and IP) is assigned a numerical
equivalent, which is then multiplied by the unit value
assigned to the course to produce the grade point
Grades without a numerical equivalent are not
included in the calculation of the grade point average.
Term grade point average is computed by dividing the
total number of grade points earned by the total
number of units completed in the term to the second
decimal place (excepting those units assigned to
course with a final grade/notation of P. W. CC, CN,
CF, AU, AE, CR, FX, DE, WD, WE or IP).
Letter
Grade
Numeric
Value
.
Units
Grade
Point
The cumulative grade point average (CGPA)
expresses performance as a numerical average for all
terms completed and is closed in the term in which a
degree or diploma is awarded by senate. A new
CGPA begins when a student returns for further
studies following the awarding of a degree or diploma.
The CGPA is calculated by dividing the total number
of grade points earned to date by the total number of
units undertaken to date to the second decimal place,
with the exception of those courses assigned a final
grade/notation of P, W, CC, CN, CF, AU, AE, CR, FX,
DE, WD, WE, or lP. The CGPA calculated for terms
completed prior to the fall term 1979 includes
repeated courses.
Repeat courses repeated in fall 1979 or thereafter
and which have been assigned a final grade lower
than the grade previously assigned are excluded from
the CGPA calculation for the term in which the course
was repeated as well as any subsequent term
completed. Il, however, a higher grade is achieved in
the course when repeated, the repeat course(s) with
the lower grade(s) will be excluded from the CGPA.
If the same grade is earned for the repeated course.
the course completed most recently will be included.
The upper division grade point average is calculated
by dividing the total number of grade points earned in
upper division courses by the total number of units
assigned for those courses, counting only the higher
grade in courses that have been repeated.
Standing Required for
Continuance
Every student is expected to maintain an acceptable
standard of scholarship. Specifically, a student must
maintain a minimum CGPA of 2.00. A student who
does not do so shall be considered to be performing
unsatisfactorily in his/her studies.
upon first admission to Simon Fraser University, a
student shall be placed in good academic standing
academic performance shalt be evaluated on Simon
Fraser University courses that have assigned
grades ('assigned grade' include grades Al' through
to D. F, and N, but exclude P, W, CR, AE, CC. CN,
CF. DE, GN, FX, IP and AU)
Academic Alert
A student whose term grade point average (GPA) falls
below 2.00, but who is not placed on any of the
academic standings given below, should seek
guidance at Academic Advising and Student Success.
Academic Probation
A student who has attempted at least nine units and
has a CGPA of less than 2.00 shall be placed on
academic probation (OAP). A student on academic
probation may not enrol in a course overload. A
student on OAP standing may not receive a 'letter of
permission' to attend another university or college.
Required to Withdraw
A student may be required to withdraw (RTIN) after
one or more terms on academic probation (see
'outcomes for a student on academic probation'
below). A student on R'T'W standing may not receive a
'letter or permission' to attend another university of
college.
Extended Withdrawal
A student may be placed on extended withdrawal
(PW) after she/he is required to withdraw (R1W), is
readmitted and subsequently is on academic
probation for one or more terms (see
Outcomes for
a
Student on Academic Probation
below). A student on
PW (extended withdrawal) standing may not receive a
'letter of permission' to attend another university or
college.
Outcomes for a Student on
Academic Probation
A student on academic probation shall be evaluated
at the end of each term. If at the end of the term
• the SGPA and the CGPA are each 2.00 or higher,
the student shall be in good academic standing
• the SGPA is 2.00 or higher, but the CGPA is less
than 2.00, the student shall continue on academic
probation
• the SCPA is less than 2.00, but the CGPA is 2.00 or
higher, the student shall continue on academic
probation. (This could occur if a student repeats a
course.)
• both the SGPA and the CGPA are less than 2.00,
the student shall be required to withdraw (RTW)
from the university or, if previously required to
withdraw (RTW), shall be placed on extended
withdrawal
(PW)
Grade Point Averages Needed
for Graduation
Grade point averages (GPAs) used for graduation are
the minimum GPA5 that must be achieved to satisfy
the requirements for a degree or other credential. The
graduation CPA must be obtained both on the overall
course work (CGPA) as well as on the upper division
subset of that work (UDGPA).
In addition, program GPAs are the minimum GPAS
that must be obtained to satisfy the requirements of
an honors, major, extended minor or minor program.
In each case, the program CPA must be obtained
both on the overall course work (CGPA) as well as on
Simon Fraser University 2008 2009 Calendar
the upper division subset of that work (UDGPA) in the
program area.
The graduation and program GPAS specified below
are University minimum requirements; individual
faculties and departments may, with senate approval,
have higher requirements.
In the event of repeated courses, only the higher
grade is used in these GPA calculations.
Convocation
Convocation is held in June and October annually.
Students who fulfil their degree requirements during
the fall or spring terms may attend the June
ceremony. Graduates of the summer term convocate
in October. For specific dates and information, visit
httpJ/students.sfu,caJcorivocatjon
Application for Graduation/Granting of
Degree, Certificate or Diploma
Each candidate for a degree, certificate, or diploma
must formally apply for graduation. Details about how
to initiate the graduation process are available online
at httpJ/students.sfu.caiconvocation including
deadlines to apply for, or to cancel, applications to
graduate.
Student Enrolment 35
Notification of Award by Senate
Following senate approval, each student who has
been awarded a degree, certificate or diploma will
receive a letter of confirmation from the registrar.
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"9.
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Simon Fraser University 2008 • 2009 Calendar
