What is Satisfactory Academic Progress?

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is the level of academic standing (as defined by the college or university) that a student must maintain to continue receiving federal student aid. The requirements are designed to ensure students are making progress toward completing their degree.

SAP typically includes three components:

Grade Point Average (GPA)	The minimum cumulative GPA that must be maintained to remain eligible for financial aid can vary from one institution to the next.
Completion Rate	Student must complete a certain percentage of all courses attempted. The minimum percentage required to remain eligible for financial aid can vary from one institution to the next.
Maximum Timeframe	Students must complete their certificate, diploma or degree during a certain timeframe. The maximum time frame must not exceed 150 percent (or time and one-half) of the published program length.

Check your college or university's website, financial aid materials or student handbook to determine the SAP standards you must meet at your college or university. Make sure that you understand what is expected of you when you accept your financial aid offer. Don't wait until it's too late to ask questions and you've lost your aid.

Note: College courses taken while in high school will be included in SAP calculations for GPA, completion rate, and maximum timeframe when you enroll in college after high school. Visit the Concurrent Enrollment page to learn more.