Around 10% of undergraduate college students retake a class. This figure specifically refers to the proportion of the undergraduate population who, after an initial failed attempt, choose to enroll in and complete the course again.
Understanding the 10% Figure
While approximately 10% of undergraduates retake a class, it's crucial to understand the context of this statistic. This percentage highlights students who actively choose to retake a course after an initial unsuccessful attempt. It's important to note that a higher number of students might fail a class but ultimately choose not to retake it for various reasons, such as changing their major, incurring additional financial costs, or deciding to pursue a different academic path.
Why Students Choose to Retake a Class
Students often decide to retake a class for several compelling academic and personal reasons. The primary motivations typically revolve around improving their academic standing and ensuring progress toward their degree.
- GPA Improvement: A poor grade can significantly impact a student's Grade Point Average (GPA). Retaking a class, especially if the new grade replaces the old one (as per a university's grade forgiveness policy), can boost their GPA, which is crucial for scholarships, graduate school applications, and academic probation removal.
- Prerequisite Fulfillment: Many advanced courses or specific major requirements have prerequisites. If a student fails a foundational course, successfully retaking it becomes essential to unlock access to subsequent, higher-level classes.
- Degree Requirements: Certain courses are mandatory for graduation within a specific major or overall degree program. Failing such a course necessitates retaking it to fulfill the degree's credit and content requirements.
- Knowledge Acquisition: Sometimes, students retake a class not just for the grade, but to genuinely grasp the foundational knowledge that will be vital for future courses or their professional career.
Factors Influencing the Decision to Retake
The decision to retake a class is complex and often involves weighing several factors.
**Key Considerations Before Retaking**
- **University Policy:** Understand your institution's specific grade forgiveness policies, withdrawal deadlines, and how retaken courses are factored into your transcript and GPA.
- **Financial Cost:** Retaking a class incurs additional tuition, fees, and textbook expenses. Consider the financial burden.
- **Time Commitment:** An extra class means more time spent on lectures, assignments, and studying. Assess if you can manage the increased workload alongside your other courses.
- **Impact on Graduation Timeline:** Retaking a class might delay your graduation if it pushes back your ability to take other required courses.
- **Alternative Solutions:** Could a different course fulfill the requirement? Is there a way to fulfill the content knowledge without a full retake (e.g., tutoring, independent study)?
Pros and Cons of Retaking a Class
Understanding the potential benefits and drawbacks is vital when making this academic decision.
| Pros of Retaking a Class | Cons of Retaking a Class |
|---|---|
| Can significantly improve GPA | Incurs additional tuition and fees |
| Fulfills prerequisite for other courses | Requires extra time and effort |
| Meets specific degree requirements | May delay graduation timeline |
| Strengthens understanding of core concepts | Can be demotivating or stressful |
| Removes academic probation (if applicable) | Takes up space for other elective courses |
Alternatives to Retaking a Failed Class
While retaking is a common option, it's not always the only one. Students might consider alternatives based on their individual circumstances and academic goals.
- Academic Advising: Consulting with an academic advisor is crucial. They can provide personalized guidance on university policies, degree requirements, and alternative pathways. Understanding the importance of academic advising can help students navigate complex academic situations.
- Course Withdrawal: In some cases, withdrawing from a course before the deadline (receiving a 'W' grade) might be preferable to an 'F', as a 'W' typically does not impact GPA.
- Change of Major/Minor: If the failed course is not critical to a student's revised academic plan, they might choose to focus on courses relevant to their new major or minor instead of retaking the failed one.
- Tutoring and Support Services: For students struggling, utilizing campus tutoring centers, academic support programs, and faculty office hours can sometimes prevent the need for a retake by improving performance during the initial attempt.
Making an Informed Decision
Deciding whether or not to retake a class requires careful thought and proactive steps. It's recommended that students:
- Review their academic transcript and degree audit thoroughly to understand the impact of the failed grade.
- Speak with their academic advisor immediately to explore all available options and potential consequences.
- Understand their university's specific retake and grade forgiveness policies, as these vary widely.
- Consider the financial and time implications of retaking the course, including potential impacts on financial aid.
- Evaluate their personal goals and academic trajectory to determine if retaking the class aligns with their long-term plans for improving their college GPA and overall success.
By weighing these factors, students can make the best decision for their academic future.
