What is an Incomplete Grade?

Answer 1

When a college student is unable to complete the coursework for a particular class, the instructor may give the student an incomplete grade. An incomplete grade is granted for a temporary period of time, and it gives the student an opportunity to complete the required coursework by a certain date. Read on to learn the ins and outs of getting an incomplete grade.

Are college instructors required to give students an incomplete grade?

No, college instructors are usually not required to give a student an incomplete grade. However, if a student has successfully completed a majority of the coursework for that class, the instructor may give the student an incomplete grade (if the student has a valid reason). There are several reasons why a student cannot the coursework for that semester or term:

• Illness
• Car accident
• A death in the immediate family
• Severe personal problems (e.g. divorce or financial problems)
• Working extra hours

How is an incomplete grade reflected on my college transcript?

If you receive an incomplete in a class, your grade for that class is I. The letter I will appear on your college transcript next to that specific class. However, once you submit the required coursework for that class, your grade will be changed to reflect the new grade. Please note that although the incomplete grade will appear on your transcript, it does not affect your grade point average.

How long do I have to complete the remaining coursework?

Generally speaking, you have anywhere from one semester/quarter to a year to submit your coursework for an incomplete grade. Your instructor will tell you the deadline for submitting your coursework for that class.

What happens if I do not complete the required coursework by the deadline?

If you fail to complete all of your coursework in a timely manner, the incomplete may automatically change to a letter grade "F" on your transcript. As a result, the F will lower your grade point average. In addition, if you receive an F in a class, you will need to take that class again (if the class is a graduation requirement for your degree program).

As you can see, instructors do grant incomplete grades when it is necessary. If you ever receive an incomplete grade in a class, it is important to complete the remaining coursework by the specified due date. Keep in mind that it is your responsibility to complete your coursework for that class. Do not depend on your instructor to contact you about the incomplete grade. Be sure to follow up with your instructor and with the Registrars office at your school, once your complete your coursework for that class.