Passing grades aren't universal. Different courses, programs, and schools set different minimum thresholds. Understanding your specific requirements prevents surprises.
Common Passing Standards
Many schools define D (60-69%) as passing and C (70-79%) as minimally acceptable. However, some schools require C or better (70%+). Others require B or better (80%+) for courses in your major.
These standards vary dramatically. Some schools pass students at 50%, while others require 75%. Your first step is finding your school's official minimum passing grade.
Finding Your Passing Requirements
Check your student handbook or academic policies section of your school's website. Look for minimum grade requirements for passing courses and progression requirements.
Search for your program's specific requirements. Pre-med students might need C or better in prerequisite sciences, but humanities majors only need D. Business schools often require C or better in major courses.
When in doubt, email your academic advisor. They can clarify all requirements specific to your program.
Pass/Fail Courses
Some courses are graded pass/fail instead of letter grades. In these courses, you need to achieve the passing threshold (usually 60-70%) to earn credit. Below that threshold, you fail and don't earn credit.
Pass/fail courses still require passing work. Don't underestimate them because they don't have letter grades.
Grade Forgiveness and Retakes
Some schools offer grade forgiveness, allowing you to retake courses and use the new grade. Some replace the old grade entirely; others average both attempts.
Understand your school's policy. If you scored 62% (barely passing) in a major course, retaking might significantly improve your GPA.
Satisfactory Academic Progress
Schools track satisfactory academic progress for financial aid. This typically requires a minimum GPA (often 2.0) and successful completion of most attempted courses (often 66%).
Failing courses affects both your GPA and progress percentage, potentially affecting financial aid eligibility.
Strategic Passing
If you're barely passing a course and can retake it, consider retaking. The improved grade often justifies the cost and effort.
If you're close to failing, identify exactly what you need to pass and focus on that. Sometimes this means concentrating on final exams or projects rather than everything equally.