Academic Policies

Although advisors are available to assist students in navigating the campus, it is the student’s responsibility to understand and comply with all policies, and to complete satisfactorily all degree requirements within the allotted time frame. This includes the responsibility to track completion of major, University and Berkeley campus requirements, as well as to comply with residence, minimum progress and scholarship requirements. Students are expected to utilize the Berkeley Academic Guide and Rausser College Undergraduate Handbook to become familiar with policies and requirements and partner with OISA to ensure academic success.

Undergraduate advisors have a special role on campus — they serve as a link between faculty and students, and students and campus. Advisors are your “tour guides” to student services and academic information across campus, and they have access to the resources you may need as a student. If problems arise, they are trained to assist you in understanding your options and campus policy. You may contact your advisor with any questions, while respecting your privacy and concerns in confidence. 

Changes to Policies and Procedures for Spring 2020, Fall 2020, Spring 2021, & Summer 2021

In light of the substantial disruptions to instruction caused by the novel coronavirus emergency, the Berkeley Division of the Academic Senate made changes to grading options for the spring 2020 semester.  Rausser College adjusted its policies and procedures for Spring 2020. 

After much consultation across the colleges of UC Berkeley, and via our college Executive Committee, Rausser College adjusted its policies and procedures for Fall 2020, Spring 2021, & Summer 2021. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your major advisor or email advising.rcnr@berkeley.edu.

Student Status

Click here for more information about Academic Policies relating to your status as a student.  You'll find information pertaining to the following:

  • Class Status as a Student 
  • Full-Time, Part-Time, Limited Status
  • Additional Semesters
  • Reduced Course Loads
    • Reduced Course Loads due to Dependent Care
    • Reduced Course Loads due to due to Disability
    • Reduced Study due to Employment and Employment Verification
    • Reduced Course Loads due to Graduation
  • Exceeding Maximum Units
  • Cancellation 
  • Withdrawal & Semester-Out Rule
  • Medical Withdrawal 
  • Readmission
  • Academic Standing
    • Academic Probation  
    • Dismissal  
  • Distinctions and Honors

Courses & Grades

Click here for more information about Academic Policies relating courses, grades, and examinations.  You'll find information pertaining to the following:

  • Passed/Not Passed Grading Option
  • Incomplete Grades
    • Extending Incomplete Grades
    • Freezing Incomplete Grades
    • 12 or More Units of Incomplete Grades
  • Repeating Courses 
  • Transferring Course Work
  • AP Exam Equivalency Chart
  • Intercampus Visitor 
  • Dual Enrollment
  • Cross-Registration Programs with other Schools
  • UC Extention Credit
  • Grade Grievances

Undergraduate Requirements

Click here for more information about Academic Policies relating to the three levels of requirements for undergraduates at Rausser.  You'll find information pertaining to the following:

  • University Requirements
  • Rausser College Requirements
  • Major Requirements