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Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Appeal Workshops and Tips

If you've been notified that you're not meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and need to submit an appeal, you're not alone—and help is available. The Financial Aid & Scholarships Office is here to help you understand SAP requirements, the appeal process, and how to submit a thoughtful and complete appeal.

Attend a SAP Appeal Workshop

We encourage you to attend one of our in-person workshops. These sessions will walk you through the SAP policy, what to expect from the appeal process, and how to craft a strong appeal statement. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and receive support from our staff.

LOCATION: USU Computer Lab
Dates and Times:

• Monday, June 30, 2025 — 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
• Wednesday, July 2, 2025 — 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Monday, July 7, 2025 — 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
• Tuesday, July 8, 2025 — 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
• Thursday, July 10, 2025 — 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Can’t Attend a Workshop? Here’s How to Prepare Your Appeal
If you’re unable to attend a workshop, review the guidance below carefully to help you prepare a complete and compelling appeal.

What to Submit:

• A completed and signed SAP Appeal Form
• A typed, signed, and dated personal statement
• Supporting documentation, if applicable (e.g., medical records, letters from professionals)

Writing a Strong Appeal Statement
Your personal statement is your chance to explain what affected your academic performance and how you plan to improve. Review committees appreciate honest, clear, and reflective statements.

1. Start with a Clear Introduction

• Identify yourself with your full name, CSUN student ID, and academic program (Major)
• Clearly indicate you are writing to appeal the decision regarding your Satisfactory Academic Progress.

2. Explain the Circumstances That Affected Your Progress

• Be honest and specific about what happened. Describe the circumstance that led to your academic difficulties. Examples include:
• Medical or mental health issues
• Family emergencies or loss
• Personal or financial hardships
• Include specific dates and details—avoid vague or general explanations

3. Take Responsibility

• Acknowledge the impact your decisions or actions may have had on your academic performance
• Reflect on what you’ve learned and what you would do differently moving forward

4. Describe What Has Changed

• Explain what has changed in your life or circumstances that will now allow you to succeed
• Include examples such as:
• Accessing mental health care or medical treatment
• Resolving a family or personal crisis
• Developing new study habits or time management strategies

5. Share Your Plan for Success

• Be specific about how you plan to meet academic requirements going forward
• Include any support systems or campus resources you plan to use (e.g., tutoring, academic advising, counseling)

6. Include Supporting Documentation

• Attach evidence that supports your explanation (e.g., medical letters, legal documents, or professional statements)
• Reference these documents in your appeal and explain their relevance

7. Final Steps

• Proofread your statement for grammar and clarity
• Ask someone you trust to review it
• Sign and date your appeal before submitting

Key Questions to Ask Yourself
As you reflect on your experience, consider the following:

• Why did my academic progress suffer? What were the root causes?
• How did I respond to the challenges I faced?
• What have I done differently since then?
• What resources or strategies will I use to prevent this from happening again?
• Have I addressed all terms and courses that contributed to my SAP issue?

Deadlines & Processing Timeline
To be considered for financial aid before the start of the fall semester, your SAP appeal must be submitted by:

Priority Deadline: Friday, July 14, 2025

• Appeals received by this date will be reviewed, and students will be notified of their status by mid-August via CSUN email.

If you miss the priority deadline:

• Appeals submitted July 14 – December 18, 2025 will be accepted and reviewed for Fall and Spring, but processing may occur after the Fall term begins
• Appeals submitted after December 18, 2025 will be considered for Spring 2026 only

We’re Here to Support You

We understand that challenges happen. Whether you attend a workshop or submit your appeal independently, we’re here to help you move forward. Our office is committed to your academic success and will support you every step of the way.

For questions or assistance, please contact the Financial Aid & Scholarship Department.