COVID-19 Alternative Grading Policy
West Chester University responded to the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spring 2020 by shifting all courses to alternative modes of delivery, ensuring that learning could continue while protecting the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff. This transition reflected the university’s commitment to maintaining a student-centered academic environment even under unprecedented conditions.
To support student success, the university introduced a flexible grading system that allowed students to select the grading option that best suited them on a course-by-course basis after final grades for Spring 2020 were posted. This approach reduced pressure during a highly uncertain time and enabled students to stay focused on developing the knowledge and skills necessary for their personal and professional growth.
The results suggested that this flexibility had a meaningful impact. Student performance during Spring 2020 improved compared to previous spring semesters, which many attributed to a shift in focus from grade anxiety to genuine learning.
Given these outcomes, the university implemented the COVID-19 Alternative Grading Policy for the 2020–2021 academic year - encompassing Fall 2020, Winter 2020/2021, Spring 2021, and Summer 2021 semesters - to continue prioritizing student learning, adaptability, and success during an ongoing period of disruption.
Can I Access My Original Grades Given By My Instructor?
Faculty awarded grades are available by request, even if you elected not to have them included in your GPA or posted on your transcript.
The Original Grade Report is an official document containing the faculty awarded grade(s) earned. Please be aware that this document is only available for semesters when the Alternative Grading Policy was implemented and only contains the list of courses with the faculty awarded grades.
The Original Grade Report is available by placing an order through Parchment. Once logged in, select COVID/Original Grade Report. An electronic copy of the report is provided free of charge. Students who opt for a paper copied mailed will incur a small fee.
Alternative Grade Types
The grade types, along with the credit information and GPA impact, are listed below.
| Grade | Credit | GPA Impact |
|---|---|---|
| E (Earned Credit) | Credit Earned for the Course | No GPA Impact |
| N (No Credit) * | No Credit Earned for the Course | No GPA Impact |
| S (Satisfactory) | Credit Earned for the Course | No GPA Impact |
* Please be aware that a grade of "N" is punitive, as the courses with this grade do not earn credit towards degree completion.
Spring 2020 Information
Please click on the links below for more information on the Spring 2020 Alternative Grading Policy
2020 - 2021 Academic Year Information (Fall 2020 - Summer 2021)
Includes Fall 2020, Winter 2020/2021, Spring 2021, and Summer 2021 semesters. Please click on the links below for more information on the 2020-2021 Academic Year Alternative Grading Policy