Policy #18: Grading System
18.1 Purpose
The Institution utilizes a standardized letter grading system where applicable. In the case where courses or programs are completed with a pass/fail designation, the Institution reserves the right to withhold certification if a student has not met the minimum requirements of the course or program. Failure to meet the minimum course requirements or assignments will result in an Incomplete (I) grade.
| 95 to 100 → A+ | 90 to 94 → A | 85 to 89 → A- |
| 80 to 84 → B+ | 75 to 79 → B | 70 to 74 → B- |
| 65 to 69 → C+ | 60 to 64 → C | 55 to 59 → C- |
18.2 Assignments, Papers and Presentations
Course assignments and evaluations are formulated to be completed in conjunction with synchronous classes. Students must complete their weekly assignments and evaluations prior to the following scheduled class.
Final assignments are allocated a two-week completion period to ensure that grading is conducted promptly and feedback is provided in a timely manner.
18.3 Writing Style
Papers must be written following the American Psychological Association (APA) Style Guide. Requirements are listed in the Learning Management System (LMS).
18.4 Marking Assignments
The passing grade for all assignments and evaluations is set at 70% which is a B minus (B-). Students who fail to meet the passing grade for all assignments and evaluations will be required to retake the course, which will incur additional fees.
Criteria for marking assignments vary and are specified in the LMS.
Final assignments are allocated a two-week completion period to ensure that grading is conducted promptly and feedback is provided in a timely manner. Students have a 5-day grace period to submit late assignments without penalty. After this period, failing to submit the assignment will result in a failed grade for the assignment and the course. This will require the student to retake the course, which will incur additional fees.
Marking Requirements
- A marking structure for each assignment is required – a rubric that clearly identifies expectations.
- All assignments should be marked, graded, and, where appropriate, include comments to increase learning and clearly identify areas for development. Timelines for marking assignments are listed in the LMS.
- Students have the option to re-do assignments that do not meet the criteria for the passing grade of 70%; please see the following Academic Appeal policy for more details.
- Instructors are required to report to the Academic Department any students or assignments that are not meeting the passing criteria. This is to ensure that cultural differences, personal challenges, learning styles, and other areas requiring support are quickly identified, and support services are engaged in a timely manner.