When a course is repeated, a student may only earn credit once (unless it is a repeatable course). As part of repeating a class, the GPA calculation may be adjusted to exclude the initial non-passing grade. For instance, if I earn a D in GEW 101B (a 3 unit course) and later repeat it and earn an A, I will earn 3 units and the D grade may be excluded from my GPA calculation so that only the A affects my GPA. This is called grade forgiveness, also referred to as a GPA adjustment.
At CSUSM (and in accordance with CSU Executive Order 1037), undergraduate students may repeat up to 16 units of courswork for grade forgiveness.
Limits on repeated classes apply to classes taken in matriculated status as well as classes completed via self support, e.g., extended learning or open university.
For information regarding the repeat policy for graduate students, please visit the Graduate Studies Policies and Procedures page (see Course Repeat Policy - Graduate).