Directions for Submitting a Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeal
The following are the required steps in submitting a Satisfactory Academic Progress appeal. Failing to follow these steps will result in your appeal being denied. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact the Office of Financial Aid at finaid@davidsondavie.edu or 336.249.8186.
Students waiting for their appeal to be reviewed are responsible for any outstanding tuition and fees. Students will receive notification of their appeal approval or denial through their Davidson-Davie email account. Students not satisfied with the result may appeal the decision following the process outlined in the College’s General Complaint Policy, beginning with Step 2.
Step 1: Understand the Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements
Before submitting your appeal, review your Satisfactory Academic Progress notification email to understand which of the requirements you do not currently meet. Information about the Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements
Step 2: Identify and Document Extenuating Circumstances
- Identify Circumstances: Determine any extenuating circumstances that contributed to your inability to meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements. These may include:
- The death of an immediate family member or close relative (i.e. mother, father, grandparent, sibling, or immediate family such as a related aunt or uncle)
- A serious injury or illness (physical or mental) that required medical intervention
- Significant, unanticipated family obligations due to medical issues or illness
- A catastrophic loss due to fire, flood, or natural disaster
- An involuntary call to active military duty
- An unsafe or abusive environment
- Any undue hardship that prohibits the successful completion of coursework
- Gather Documentation: Collect relevant documentation to support your appeal. Acceptable documentation may include:
- Medical records or doctor’s notes
- Death certificates or obituaries
- Police reports or legal documents
- Letters from professionals (e.g., therapists, counselors, social workers)
- Financial statements or employment records
Step 3: Create Your Academic Plan
In partnership with your academic advisor, outline a clear and realistic academic plan, including specific goals, timelines, and resources you will utilize to ensure future success.
Step 4: Submit Your Appeal
Your appeal should include the following components:
Section 1. Explanation of Circumstances
- Provide a detailed explanation of the circumstances that impacted your academic performance
- Include specific examples and connect them to how they affected your studies
- Describe how these circumstances directly influenced your academic progress and caused you to fall short of the Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements
- Do not write just 2 or 3 sentences; the more information you provide the better decision we can make for you
Section 2: Demonstration of Change or Improvement
- Explain the steps you have taken to address the issues and improve your academic performance
- Highlight any changes in behavior, strategies, or support systems you have implemented
- Reiterate your commitment to improving your academic performance
Section 3: Documentation
- List all documentation you will be providing to support your appeal
- Attach the documentation by clicking on the paperclip icon at the bottom of the screen
Step 5: Await a Decision
- Notification
You will be notified of the decision regarding your appeal via your Davidson-Davie email
- If Your Appeal Is Approved
You must do the following to maintain your eligibility for financial aid:
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- Follow the academic plan you created with your academic advisor; get approval from your academic advisor before making any changes
- Successfully complete each class in which you enroll; this includes not withdrawing from any classes
- Earn a GPA of at least 2.0 each semester
- Seek academic advising or support services if you need further assistance or guidance
- If Your Appeal Is Denied
You are no longer eligible for financial aid until you improve your academics to once again meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements