If, for reasons beyond your control, you are prevented from completing a course within the prescribed time frame, you can request a deferred grade from your instructor. This allows you to continue making progress toward obtaining your degree.
Please refer to the complete Penn State policy on deferred grades.
Grade Deferment Eligibility
Some academic colleges at Penn State have restrictions on grade deferment. To find out more about your eligibility, talk with your course instructor. You may also contact your academic adviser for more information.
Deferred Grade Timing
If your instructor approves a deferred grade plan, you will have the following time frames to complete your course work and have your instructor post your grade:
- undergraduate students: 10 weeks after the course end date
- graduate students: 12 weeks after the course end date
In extenuating circumstances, an extension may be granted with the agreement of your course instructor. Extensions must be approved by your college dean or the director of Penn State’s Division of Undergraduate Studies. For assistance requesting an extension, please submit the Academic Concern form. You should talk with your instructor before submitting the form.
When you complete your course, your instructor will assign your grade. If you do not complete your course and the final grade is not assigned within the given time period, the Office of the University Registrar will assign a grade of F to your academic record.
Grade Deferment and Graduation
If your records show a deferred grade when you graduate, you will not receive your diploma until after you receive the grade that was deferred.
Grade Deferment and Financial Aid
Deferring a grade could impact your financial aid. For more information, contact our Financial Aid Office at 814-867-4244 or [email protected].
