Third Course Attempt Request

Details of Course Repeat Request Process

Students are limited in the total number of times they may take a class at Penn State and cannot repeat a class where they have earned a “C” or better without approval. 

Students are limited to a maximum of two (2) attempts to complete a course. However, if there are extenuating circumstances a student may request one additional attempt. Students must meet with their academic adviser as soon as they anticipate needing to take a course for a third time, and no later than 10 days before the start of the semester in which they plan to re-enroll, to discuss their request. The student must identify the reasons why the two previous attempts have been unsuccessful and reflect on how these past challenges will be addressed in a third attempt. 

In extenuating circumstances, students may request an additional attempt or repeat a course in which they earned a grade of "C" or better.  Students seeking to repeat a course in which they have earned a grade of "C" or better must consult with an academic adviser in their unit of enrollment to determine whether repeating the course is advisable. 

To request a third attempt at a course or an opportunity to repeat a class in which they earned a “C” or better, students should follow the process below. For additional information please review Academic Administrative Policies and Procedure Manual- Policy C-7 (COURSE REPEATS).

Process

• Submit a Course Repeat Form in the Student Information System (LionPATH).  The form must be submitted at least 10 university business days prior to the first day of classes of the semester for which the student wants to enroll.
  • LionPATH Instructions
• After submission, the student's adviser will review the request and indicate academic support or non-support. If supported, the Associate Dean will review the student's request and adviser's comments to determine whether another attempt of the course will be approved. If approved, the Associate Dean will indicate approval via the online form. The Associate Dean may request additional information from the student.
• If approved, the Associate Dean will indicate approval via the online form.  The student will receive a notification that the request has been approved and will be able to self-enroll only after all other students who are degree candidates have had a chance to enroll.
• If there is not approval for a third attempt, the request to repeat the course will be denied. When the request is denied via the online workflow, a notification will be sent to the student. The student will be encouraged to meet with an academic adviser to discuss alternate academic plans.   
• For courses that do not populate in LionPATH, a fourth attempt (permitted only if there is no other path for degree completion), or if the request is past the deadline, please utilize C-7: Special Course Repeat Request Form and email to dgs4@psu.edu