Financial Planning_Federal Financial Aid and Satisfactory Academic Progress

Review this document to understand how Federal financial aid and academic progress are connected.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

If you are receiving financial aid (loans, grants, other) through the U.S. Department of Education, you will want to understand the importance of maintaining your grades and progress throughout your college years. The Department of Education has established criteria for eligibility of financial aid based on Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), as defined below:

• Pace of completion. This is typically calculated by dividing the total number of credits you’ve successfully completed by the total number of credits you’ve attempted.

• Grade Point Average. A “C” average is generally required. 

• Allowable time. You are eligible for financial aid up to a maximum of 150% more credits than is required for your program of study. Most programs require 120 credits for completion; therefore, no more than 180 credits may be attempted with the use of financial aid.

Loss of Financial Aid

If your college determines that you have not met the standards for Satisfactory Academic Progress, you may be suspended from the financial aid program. This doesn’t mean you’re unable to take classes--only that you are ineligible for financial aid for a period of time. You will have an opportunity to appeal the decision if you wish to continue with classes using financial aid. If you are suspended, you will likely have the ability to be reinstated at a later date.

Importance of SAP

Satisfactory Academic Progress is intended to help you meet your academic goals, i.e., to complete your degree. If you are suspended, you can take courses that meet your major requirements to the best of your ability. In addition, you are encouraged to take advantage of resources on campus, such as tutoring, supplemental instruction, counseling, accessibility services, and others. Your success is a key element of SAP.

Next Steps: To learn more about Satisfactory Academic Progress, meet with your financial aid advisor, who can guide you throughout your studies.