How to avoid academic probation

UMD students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to receive financial aid.

Here are some tips to stay in good academic standing and avoid academic probation

• Go to Class-- Establish a routine of attending your classes. Saying a course is “boring” or you are not interested or don’t think it is relevant are not valid reasons to miss class. There are many things in life that are not interesting or entertaining but we still have to do them. Developing a good work ethic is a key ingredient to succeeding in college.

• Manage your Time-- Learning to make the best use of your time is a skill that will follow you throughout life. Prioritize your tasks and minimize distractions as you work to accomplish each task. A good rule of thumb is to study 2-3 hours per week outside of class for every hour spent inside class. Strive for a healthy balance of academics and social activities.

• Ask for Help – One of the hardest lessons students learn is that they should have asked for assistance sooner. Do not wait until the end of the semester to seek help. The moment you begin to struggle in a course, do yourself a favor and visit the Tutoring Center or your professors and see what help is available. Often academic problems go hand in hand with other issues. If you feel that you need to speak with a Counselor, Health Services has a well-trained and approachable counseling staff to assist you. Counseling services are covered under the Student Services Fee you pay each semester.

• Your Job is to be a Student –Many students run into academic problems as a result of spreading themselves too thin between college and employment. If you are working more than 15 hours a week and are a full time student you may want to consider decreasing your work hours if financially feasible.

• Get to know the Campus –If you are unsure where certain buildings, departments, offices and classrooms are located do some exploring and get to know where things are.

What to do if you are placed on academic probation

For some tips and advice on what to do if you are placed on probation, take a look at the New Student Guide, found online at the College of Liberal Arts Student Affairs and Advising Center’s website.

Advisement Coordination Center
Solon Campus Center 80-82
Tel: 218-726- 8761
218-726-8863

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The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.

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