Grading System

Grades are determined by each instructor based upon an evaluation of all assigned and completed coursework. Course participation, mastery of subject matter, and promise of continuing success in sequential courses in related fields are all criteria used to evaluate progress.

• “A” represents outstanding understanding, application, and integration of subject material and extensive evidence of original thinking, skillful use of concepts, and ability to analyze and solve complex problems. Demonstrates diligent application of Learning Model principles, including initiative in serving other students.
• “B” represents considerable/significant understanding, application, and incorporation of the material that would prepare a student to be successful in next level courses, graduate school, or employment. The student participates in the Learning Model as applied in the course.
• “C” represents sufficient understanding of subject matter. The student demonstrates minimal initiative to be prepared for class. Sequenced courses could be attempted, but mastering new materials might prove challenging. The student participates only marginally in the Learning Model.
• “D” represents poor performance and initiative to learn, understand, and apply course materials. Retaking a course or remediation may be necessary to prepare for additional instruction in this subject matter.
• “E” represents failure in the course.
• “P” represents passing the course and is not calculated into the GPA.
• “W” represents withdrawal from the class and is not calculated into the GPA.
• “UW” represents an unofficial withdrawal which is given to a student who meets the following criteria: Did not complete proper withdrawal procedures; has record of non-attendance that began before the last date to withdraw from individual courses without grade earned; and did not complete any work, tests, or class related assignments after attendance ceased. The “UW” is calculated into the GPA as a failing grade value. (0.0)
• “I” is a conditional grade. (See Incomplete Grade)
• “CR” indicates credit given.
• “NC” indicated no credit.
• “NR” represents the grade was not reported by the instructor. A student receiving a “NR” grade should contact the instructor to request that a valid grade be submitted to Enrollment Services.
• “V” indicates a course taken for audit.
• Under some circumstances, students receiving financial aid may not be eligible to receive a grade of CR, NC, P, I, W, or V. Consult the Financial Aid Office for additional information relevant to specific situations.
• CR/NC (Credit/No Credit). Credit/No Credit courses do not count towards graduation and are not calculated into the GPA. A mastery level of 80% is required to receive credit in the following courses:
  • MAT 90 Basic Mathematics
  • MAT 97 Introductory Algebra

Credit Definitions

• Attempted:  The total number of credits in which a student has registered in a semester or on a cumulative basis.
• Earned:  The total number of credits completed with a progress grade in a semester or on a cumulative basis.
• Passed:  The total number of credits earned that do not factor into a semester or cumulative GPA.
• Quality:  The total number of credits earned that factor into a semester or cumulative GPA.
• Points:  The total number of grade points earned in a semester or on a cumulative basis.

The following table indicates each grade variant at Ensign College with its equivalent grade points:

* Does not affect the GPA calculation, but may impact Satisfactory Academic progress.
** Does not affect the GPA calculation, does not impact Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Calculating GPA and SAP