Academics

What is the GPA Scale ASU?

ASU uses the plus-minus scale with a grade range from A to E (failing). The plus (+) prefix adds 0.33 points to the flat letter grade and the minus (-) prefix subtracts 0.33 points to the flat letter grade (i.e., A- = 3.67, B+ = 3.33).

Although the grade of A+ carries 4.33 quality points, the undergraduate GPA is capped at 4.00. On your DARS Report, you can see a GPA above 4.00, but not on your transcript.

For more information, please visit the ASU Grades information page.

How My GPA is Calculated?

When calculating your GPA, only the grades listed in the table above are factored into the calculation. The following grades do not affect your GPA:

Here are the steps to compute your GPA:


Below is an example of how your GPA is calculated.

Is There a Standardized Grading Scale at ASU?

No. ASU does not mandate instructors to use the same grading scale across different departments or schools, which means some classes offer A+ grades and some do not. Please read the syllabus for additional information on grading.

How I Can Find the Syllabus of Certain Courses?

The Course Search tool enables you to register for your classes and view published syllabi. You can search for syllabi from past semesters as references, but the content and policy may fluctuate. 

When I Can Access My Canvas Courses?

The access to your Canvas course shells opens 2-3 days before the semester start date. Sometimes the professor can limit the access strictly from the first day of the semester to the last day.

Can I Save the Course Files for Future Use?

It depends. If the professor gives verbal permission, you're free to do so. Otherwise, it's recommended to consult with your professor in advance before doing anything.

Is the Attendance Mandatory?

It depends on what class and who teaches the class. Classes such as ENG 101 (First-Year Composition) or PHY 122 (Calculus-Based Physics Laboratory) usually have an attendance policy. Upper-division major core classes tend to have mandatory attendance and participation. Online classes may have Discussion Boards as a way for professors to take attendance.

Anyway, whether the class has mandatory attendance or not, skipping classes does not always help you. If you want to succeed, attend classes regularly unless the lecture is truly useless.

When Do I Register for My Classes?

ASU assigns registration dates based on your current class standing, and everyone gets a different registration date. The general order will be the following:

For example, the Spring 2024 Registration opens on October 16, 2023, for campus-immersion students:


*If you're a Barrett student, you register on the priority date regardless of your class standing.

**Dates are approximate.


Everyone is able to register for summer class once the summer registration opens. 

Will I Get Kicked Out of My Major for Being Off-Track?

The "Off-Track" status indicates a student does not take a critical course as expected and/or receives a failing grade (D or E) on a critical course on the Major Map. You can look up the Major Map for your degree program here. Critical courses are marked with a red triangle and necessary courses are labeled with a yellow star.

If you're being "Off-Track" once, you will receive an email from your advisor to schedule an appointment, and typically cannot register for future classes until the advising hold is lifted. You're advised to change your major if you cannot pass the critical courses with a C (2.00) or higher.

When My Professors Will Submit the Grades?

For A-term courses, grades are due 3 days after the last day of class. For B-term and C-term courses, you can expect your grades posted on MyASU no later than Monday after finals week. The waiting period can be nerve-racking, but some professors tend to take longer time on grading to avoid errors. 

Can I Overload My Classes?

Yes, but you must meet the requirements and get the petition approved. Only students at Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering can register for up to 19 credits during the Fall and Spring semesters without needing a petition. If you want to register for more than 18 credits as a non-Engineering student, please email your advisor for the petition form and submit the completed petition form at least 5-7 business days before the registration period to avoid delays. Each college and school has its own criteria for overloading.

Overloading is not recommend for first-semester student or student who cannot maintain a 3.00 GPA.

When I Can Fly Out for Vacation?

Before booking any flight, please refer to the Final Exam Schedule determined by ASU and check the syllabus. Some classes penalize students for missing the in-person final exam if the departure date of your flight is earlier than the final exam. If you want to leave on the same day of your finals, please book the flight that departs at least 3 hours after your last final exam (e.g., if your last final exam ends at 4:20pm, you should book flights with departure time after 7:30pm).

Can I Drop or Withdraw from My Classes?

Regular Drop

Withdrawal

Complete Session Withdrawal