Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is the process used to determine if a student is making acceptable progress towards a degree or certificate.
Federal and New York State SAP policies outline eligibility criteria and academic progress requirements for each aid program. Students are encouraged to speak with the Financial Aid office and their advisor to ensure that requirements for aid are being met. Federal SAP Policy | State SAP Policy
Frequently Asked Questions
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is important because it ensures that students are meeting the academic requirements needed to remain eligible for federal, state, and institutional financial aid. Maintaining SAP allows students to stay on track toward completing their degree while continuing to receive the financial support necessary for their education. Students who do not meet SAP standards risk losing their financial aid eligibility until the standards are met.
Yes. Students may appeal if extenuating circumstances affected their academic performance.
Examples of extenuating circumstances are:
- Accident or injury requiring hospitalization and recovery
- Call to military active duty with short response time
- Death of an immediate family member
- Fire or other catastrophic events
- Medical issues requiring extensive follow up care
You may submit a SAP Appeal if you have experienced serious extenuating circumstances during the semester in which you became SAP ineligible. Submitting an appeal does not guarantee approval and reinstatement of aid.
To regain eligibility for federal, state, or institutional financial aid after losing it due to not meeting SAP standards, a student must:
- Complete at least 6 credits with a grade of C or better. You must submit a SAP Appeal after completing 6 credits with a C or better.
- Meet all SAP standards, including the required cumulative GPA and completion rate (Pace).
- If extenuating circumstances affected your academic performance during the term you became SAP ineligible, you may submit a SAP Appeal. Submitting an appeal does not guarantee approval and reinstatement of aid.
Students can contact FASC (Financial Aid Student Center) for assistance with understanding SAP requirements, maintaining eligibility, or submitting an appeal.
Gordon Student Center – Student Central
M,T,TH,F 8:30am-4:00pm W 10:00am-4:00pm
315-498-2000
fasc@sunyocc.edu
Visit Us
No matter where you are in your financial aid journey, we’re committed to helping you access the resources you need to support your education. Stop by the FASC during walk-in hours and let us help you navigate your financial aid process.
Please come in during walk-in hours. Limited appointments are also available.