U of M Senate Approves Compassionate Grading Scheme for Fall 2020/Winter 2021

The newly approved grading scheme gives students the choice to exclude from their UM grade point average (GPA) up to one (1) grade received in Fall term and up to one (1) grade received in Winter term, or, up to one (1) grade received in a spanned course which runs through both Fall and Winter terms.

While details wait to be finalized, this decision presents a clear benefit for students looking to apply to professional programs which heavily consider their CGPA as a factor for admission. Although the specific grade will remain on the student’s transcript, it will not be factored into the calculation of a student’s CGPA – a deciding factor for certain admissions processes and awards.

If a student selects these options, the exclusion of one or two grades will result in a new, adjusted grade point average. This new average will be used for all GPA-based performance requirements, including program progression, probation, suspension, and requirements to withdraw, as well as to determine eligibility for UM bursaries and scholarships.

The University has yet to finalize decisions surrounding deadlines and other administrative mechanisms. The University of Manitoba Students’ Union and the University of Manitoba Graduate Students’ Association will be working together with the central administration to coordinate resources for students to better understand their new options.

Rubel Talukder, VP Academic at UMGSA Says: “On behalf of all students, I want to convey my sincere thanks to the University Administration for considering and approving the Compassionate Grading option especially in such a short time period. It will be a sigh of relief for Graduate students especially, who are already under extreme stress trying to adapt to the online learning amid COVID-19.”