Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy

Federal regulations require that Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFUMS) establish and implement a policy that ensures all financial aid recipients are making satisfactory academic progress (SAP) toward a degree.  SAP is measured by two criteria: quantitative progress and qualitative progress.  These criteria evaluate both the quantity and quality of the academic work completed.

The SAP policy applies to all students during all periods of enrollment whether or not financial aid was received.  SAP must be measured at least once a year and is generally done following the spring quarter.  SAP will be measured more often for students who are in jeopardy of falling behind the SAP requirements.

 Quantitative Requirement (quantity of academic work completed)

1. A student must complete at least a federally-mandated 67% of all credit hours attempted, defined as any course that appears on the student’s permanent transcript.
2. Withdrawals will be counted as credit hours attempted if they appear on the student’s permanent transcript.
3. “F” grades are always counted in credit hours attempted.
4. Repeated classes are counted as credit hours attempted each time the course is taken.
5. Incomplete grades are counted as credit hours attempted, but not completed.
6. Transfer credit hours are not used in calculating a student’s credit completion rate.
7. The maximum time frame during which a student may receive financial aid may not exceed 150% of the credits needed to complete the student’s academic program.

Qualitative Requirement (quality of academic work completed)

1. Each academic program at RFUMS has minimum academic requirements that need to be met.
2. Transfer grades are not used in the qualitative calculation.

Appeal of Financial Aid Suspension

If a student fails to meet either of the SAP criteria s/he is no longer eligible to receive any further financial aid.  A student may appeal a financial aid suspension and will be given appeal procedure details at the time of the financial aid suspension. 

If the appeal is successful, additional financial aid will be granted for only one additional quarter.  Specific terms will be established that need to be met to receive financial aid after the probationary quarter.
If the appeal is unsuccessful, the student may regain eligibility for additional financial aid by taking courses, at their own expense, until they once again fulfill the SAP requirements.
The appeal will be reviewed by the Financial Aid Appeals Committee, consisting of a group representing all areas of the RFUMS community.  The decision of the committee will be final.