April 9, 2020
Dear UNL Students,
As we come to the end of the second week of remote learning, I hope you are doing well during this unprecedented time. Many of you have shared that you are struggling with unexpected and often difficult circumstances that the COVID-19 global pandemic has thrown your way. I want you to know that the university hears you.
During these last few weeks of the semester, I want to reaffirm that your academic success remains our top priority. I also recognize that "success" may look different now than it did at the beginning of the semester, or even a few weeks ago.
That's why I have approved a change to grading for undergraduate classes for the Spring 2020 semester that I hope will alleviate some uncertainty and anxiety, while also ensuring that you each have the fullest opportunity to achieve your best academic outcomes this semester.
We are expanding and extending the Pass/No Pass Policy for all undergraduate courses as follows:
- Undergraduate students will have until May 29, 2020 to switch any Spring 2020 undergraduate course from a letter grade to Pass/No Pass.
- This applies to all Spring 2020 courses, including those normally ineligible for P/N grading. All courses taken on a Pass/No Pass basis that are completed with a Pass will meet requirements for majors and will count toward all degree and prerequisite requirements.
- In keeping with established university policy, courses taken on a Pass/No Pass basis in the Spring 2020 semester will not be factored into a student’s grade point average.
- To make this switch, students are required to consult with an academic advisor.
If you have already chosen to switch to Pass/No Pass or if you do so in the near future, you will have until May 29, 2020 to switch back to a letter grade. We want you to have this option because, while the circumstances surrounding this semester are hard, we have confidence in you. We know you are capable of doing great things, and we want you to be able to have the fullest opportunities to make progress on your goals.
Take care of yourself during these unusual times. I encourage you to reach out to your advisor sooner than later to discuss your options. Make the decisions that are best for you and that will allow you to thrive and be successful this semester, however that might be. And know the university is here for you.
All best,
Elizabeth Spiller
Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs