Failing a course is discouraging, but it does not have to derail your progress. Here is what happens next and how to move forward.
Note: This article reflects the policies in the current catalog. If you are enrolled under a previous catalog version, the consequences of a failed course may differ. Please refer to your applicable catalog or contact your Success Advisor for clarification.
Step 1: Reach Out
Contact your Success Advisor as soon as possible. If you are still within the course period, they can connect you with support resources and help you assess your options before the course closes. Your course instructor is also available through Canvas to discuss your performance and provide feedback.
Step 2: Understand What Happens Next
The consequences of a failed course depend on whether it is a required course or an elective.
Required courses
You must retake the course. Repeating a required course is mandatory -- you cannot graduate without passing it. Both grades will appear on your transcript, but only the higher grade is used in your CGPA calculation.
Elective courses
You have two options:
- Retake the same elective
- Switch to a different elective
If you switch to a different elective, grades from both the failed course and the new course will be included in your CGPA calculation. Discuss this with your Success Advisor before deciding.
Failing the same course multiple times
If you fail the same course three times, you may be eligible to complete an equivalent course at an approved external institution and transfer the credits to Nexford. Your Success Advisor can walk you through this process if it applies to you.
Step 3: Know Your Academic Standing
A failed course affects your academic standing in two ways:
- It counts toward your attempted credits for SAP (Satisfactory Academic Progress) purposes, which impacts your course completion pace
- If your CGPA falls below the minimum threshold for your program, you will be placed on Academic Warning, followed by Academic Probation if the issue is not resolved
During Academic Probation, your Success Advisor will work closely with you to develop a plan to get your standing back on track.
Step 4: Build a Plan
Work with your Success Advisor to review your assignment feedback, identify what contributed to the outcome, and build an actionable plan for your next attempt. This may include adjusting your study approach, managing your course load, or accessing additional support resources.
Book an Advising Session
Email: success@nexford.edu
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