Satisfactory Academic Progress and Financial Aid

In accordance with the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended by Congress, Portland State University has established a satisfactory academic progress (SAP) policy for students. All students who wish to receive federal student aid funds must make satisfactory progress toward completion of their program of study. Portland State University monitors the following for all students:

• Completion rate-the percentage of credits taken at PSU, or PSU plus transfer courses which have passing grades, according to the student level

• Grade point average for PSU courses, or PSU plus transfer courses, according to student level

• Maximum time frame (PSU courses plus accepted transfer credits). The maximum time frame for undergraduate students is 270 attempted credits. The maximum time frame for post-baccalaureate students is 90 attempted credits. The Maximum time frame for graduate students is established according to the degree or program being sought.

Graduate students must take courses applicable to their degree or certificate. At least 67% of all credits enrolled in during each academic year must be graduate level courses. In addition, financial aid recipients who withdraw from all classes or received all negative grades twice within the school year are placed in immediate Suspended eligibility status.

Students who do not meet all requirements of the Satisfactory Academic Progress policy will have their eligibility for financial aid suspended. Students whose eligibility is suspended may submit a written appeal.

The full policy is on-line at www.pdx.edu/finaid/ under Eligibility for Aid. Printed copies can be found at the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships in Neuberger Hall lobby.