WHAT IS SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS?

Satisfactory Academic Progress:  The Federal Assistance Programs authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, require the establishment of minimum standards of academic progress that students must meet to maintain eligibility for financial aid. "The College of New Jersey's (TCNJ) Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy for Financial Aid Eligibility" applies to all aid programs administered by or through the Office of Financial Assistance.  These standards apply to all students seeking or receiving assistance regardless of prior aid receipt history.  Academic progress is reviewed at least once per academic year.

Termination of Aid (Qualitative Measurement):  Students who do not meet the minimum grade point average requirements as set forth in The College of New Jersey Undergraduate Bulletin or The College of New Jersey Graduate Bulletin will be placed on financial aid probation concurrent with the academic probation period.

Time Limits (Quantitative Measurements):

• Undergraduate:  Students in a 4-year program of study who have attempted 180 credit hours (including transfer credit) cease to be eligible to receive financial aid.
• Graduate:  From the date of first enrollment in a specific degree program, students seeking a master's degree must complete all degree requirements (including thesis) within six academic years.

Reinstatement of Aid:  Students who have been suspended/dismissed from The College must present documentation of approved authorization to re-enroll when petitioning reinstatement of aid.  Students who have not received authorization to re-enroll remain ineligible to receive assistance or deferment of payment.  They should be prepared with other resources to pay all educational expenses.  Students whose appeals are approved may have their aid reinstated pending availability of funds.

All provisions of "The College of New Jersey Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy for Financial Aid Eligibility" may be appealed by written petition to the Associate Director of Student Financial Assistance or designee.