Spring 2020 Final Grades

As part of the transition to remote instruction for the spring 2020 semester, Texas State University will make a temporary change to the final grades policy. This change will provide students with the option to request modification of final course grades to the “EP” (emergency pass) grades. The modification request may only be utilized for courses in which the student earned a passing grade. See the University Registrar’s definition of grades: https://www.registrar.txstate.edu/our-services/grades.html.

The decision to allow this flexibility is in direct response to the unprecedented situation created by COVID-19. The university’s remote courses will continue to maintain the highest quality standards. Students are expected to participate in class activities, assessments, and assignments throughout the remainder of the semester. As usual, faculty members will assign final grades to students using the criteria and performance standards outlined for the course. 

Once final spring 2020 semester grades are posted, students will have until Monday, May 25, 2020 to submit a written modification request to their professor(s) requesting an EP grade. Upon approval, the professor will make the grade change. To be considered, all requests must be made in writing to the professor by the stated deadline. The modification request option is limited to spring 2020 courses only. Students make requests on a course-by-course basis.

Students are encouraged to consider the consequences of an EP grade, including those for prerequisite course requirements, GPA calculations, GPA minimums for certain programs, academic standing, admission to other programs or universities, financial aid, veteran’s benefits, scholarships, and other academic matters. Students should contact their academic advisor or academic program coordinator for specific questions. Graduate students are strongly encouraged to consult with their graduate advisor about the impacts of an EP grade before seeking a modification request.

Faculty members are encouraged to be flexible but have the authority to make their own decisions on these requests. Decisions by faculty members are due by Friday, May 29, 2020. Faculty will use the Change of Grade Web Application for making grade changes to EP: https://tim.txstate.edu/changeofgrade/.

Students may appeal a faculty member’s decision using the procedures outlined for the department, school, or college in which the course is taught. The appeal process is applicable for all grades, including those under review by this temporary change to the final grades policy.

I realize this has not been an easy transition and thank you for your patience and understanding as we assess options and make decisions in the best interest of the university community.