Satisfactory Academic Progress
Federal, State and University regulations require that financial aid recipients show satisfactory academic progress toward their degree objective. The satisfactory academic progress policy must include both a qualitative measure such as a cumulative grade point average, and a quantitative measure such as a maximum time frame to complete a degree. UT has established guidelines that are designed to promote timely advancement toward a student’s degree objective.
The following information lists the requirements and addresses common questions about satisfactory academic progress (SAP).
What programs are governed by SAP requirements?
Programs governed by the satisfactory academic progress policy include the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Perkins Loan, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, the Federal Direct Loan (both subsidized and unsubsidized), Federal PLUS Loan, Federal Grad PLUS Loan, and the Federal Robert C. Byrd Scholarship. The policy also applies to state sponsored grants and scholarships, such as the Tennessee Student Assistance Award and Tennessee Education Lottery Scholarships, as well as, agency sponsored assistance requiring institutional certification of SAP and certain scholarship, grant, and loan programs funded by the University.
The yearly progress and maximum time allowance portion of the policy (see below) do not apply to recipients of departmental awards who are not receiving any other Federal, State or University funds.
What are the SAP requirements for undergraduate financial aid recipients?
To satisfy SAP requirements, you must accomplish the following:
- Meet a minimum grade point average
- Earn a minimum number of credit hours each academic year
- Complete your degree objective within a maximum number of semesters enrolled and a maximum number of attempted credit hours (maximum time allowance).
How is SAP monitored?
SAP is monitored at the end of the spring semester of each academic year. The Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships monitors yearly progress, the maximum time allowance, and grade point average (GPA).
Contact Us
115 Student Services Building
Knoxville, TN 37996-0210
Telephone: (865) 974-3131
FAX: (865) 974-2175
finaid@utk.edu
HOURS:
8:00am-5:00pm (M-F)