The term satisfactory progress in education refers to the requirement that a graduate student must meet or exceed the standards set by their educational institution to maintain their status as a candidate for their degree. This concept is crucial for students receiving fellowships, as it ensures that they are actively engaged and making adequate advancements toward completing their academic goals.
Satisfactory progress is primarily used in the context of higher education, particularly for graduate students who are recipients of federal fellowships or financial aid. It is a legal requirement that ensures students are meeting the academic standards necessary for continued funding and enrollment. This term is relevant in the areas of education law and administrative law, where institutions must comply with federal regulations regarding student aid.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A graduate student enrolled in a master's program must complete at least two courses each semester with a GPA of 3.0 or higher to maintain satisfactory progress and continue receiving their fellowship funding.
Example 2: A doctoral candidate is required to pass their comprehensive exams within two years of starting their program to be considered as making satisfactory progress toward their degree. (hypothetical example)
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Specific Requirements |
|---|---|
| California | Requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 for graduate students receiving state funding. |
| New York | Mandates completion of at least 75% of attempted credits for satisfactory progress. |
| Texas | Students must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher to qualify for state financial aid. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Satisfactory Academic Progress | Refers to the overall academic performance requirements for students. | Broader term that includes various academic standards beyond just graduate students. |
| Academic Probation | A status assigned to students who fail to meet satisfactory progress. | Indicates a warning status rather than the fulfillment of progress criteria. |
If you are a graduate student and concerned about maintaining satisfactory progress, consider the following steps:
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
You may face academic probation or lose eligibility for financial aid.