academic probation

/ˌækəˈdemɪk proʊˈbeɪʃn/

Meaning

Academic probation is a formal status assigned to students who fail to meet the minimum GPA requirements of their school. It serves as a warning that they must improve their grades within a specified period or risk suspension. It is a serious, official term used by universities.

Examples

  • He was placed on academic probation after failing two classes last semester.

    He was placed on academic probation after failing two classes last semester.

  • To get off academic probation, she needs to raise her GPA to a 2.0.

    To get off academic probation, she needs to raise her GPA to a 2.0.

  • The university sent an official letter warning him about his academic probation.

    The university sent an official letter warning him about his academic probation.

  • Being on academic probation means you cannot participate in varsity sports.

    Being on academic probation means you cannot participate in varsity sports.

  • Students on academic probation must meet weekly with an academic advisor.

    Students on academic probation must meet weekly with an academic advisor.

Common Mistakes

  • ✗ He is in academic probation.

    ✓ He is on academic probation.

    The correct preposition to use with academic probation (or probation in general) is 'on,' not 'in.'

  • ✗ The dean gave me an academic probation.

    ✓ The dean placed me on academic probation.

    Academic probation is an abstract status, not a countable noun. We use the verb phrase 'place [someone] on academic probation' or 'be on academic probation.'

Related Expressions

academic suspensiongpa requirementsatisfactory academic progress

Practice

  • If my GPA drops below 2.0, the university will place me on ___.

    💡 A warning status for students with low grades.

    Show answer

    academic probation

  • She worked incredibly hard to get off ___ and stay in college.

    💡 The official trial period for struggling students.

    Show answer

    academic probation