Amid this national emergency we are asking our university to move to a universal pass system for the remainder of the semester.

What does “Universal Pass” mean?

Under a universal pass system, students would receive credit for their courses and a P on their transcript.

Why is this more equitable than opt-in Pass/Fail?

The optional Pass/Fail discriminates against students who are struggling the most. Having a difference between Pass/Fail and letter grades creates a stigma around choosing Pass/Fail, as it makes the student appear deficient. This “deficiency” will be considered by employers or grad schools. That stigma will fall on socioeconomic lines. The students without internet access, stable housing, or food security may be forced to choose Pass/Fail because of their situation.

What about students who may not be able to pass their classes?

In a world-wide crisis, every student’s top priority should be their safety and health. Resource limitations, broadband access, and external stressors will make completing this semester almost impossible for many. With Universal Pass, no student is penalized for factors out of their control. Every student will pass their courses and receive credit towards their major, distributional requirements, and graduation.

Many students still want to learn. They do not want this semester to be a waste. They want to learn, progress, and grow in the knowledge of their major. But the reality is: Those who can, will. Those who can’t - due to this extraordinary crisis - shouldn’t be penalized. 

Is this proposal unique? 

No. Many colleges such as MIT, Smith College, and other Ivy leagues have done away with letter grades. Universal Pass is being considered at Yale.