University System of Georgia students wound up this semester in many cases with better grades than students did the prior spring semester, despite the learning challenges created by the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Wednesday.
The percentage of A grades awarded to students increased from 44.1% to 52.4%, while the percentage of students who failed a class or withdrew decreased from 14.3% to 12.2%, University System officials said in a news release. Withdrawals, though, increased from 5% to 6.1%, officials said.
The systemwide numbers were consistent among racial groups, officials said.
The University of Georgia said in its own announcement Wednesday said the average grade-point average for its students was 3.76 in the spring semester, compared with 3.63 in spring 2019. The average withdrawal rate was 2.5% in 2020, compared to 2.6% in 2019.
The University System began virtual learning in March after campuses were closed to students and faculty.
A coalition of students and state lawmakers urged University System leaders to enact a pass/fail grading option this semester because of the difficulties many students had taking courses virtually, such as poor wireless connections in their hometowns. System leaders did not change their stance.
> RELATED: Georgia college students push state to allow pass/fail grade option
Many students were worried that they would lose academic scholarships that pay most or all of their tuition. Some professors nationwide have said they would be more lenient grading students this semester.
University System Chancellor Steve Wrigley lauded students in a statement.
“Our students continue to show resilience and determination in pursuing their studies, and I am grateful for how often they have overcome the challenges thrown at them by COVID-19,” Wrigley said. “Faculty and staff also worked hard to transition courses to an online format while maintaining their quality. I appreciate their flexibility and remain confident they will continue to do everything in their power to help every one of our students succeed.”
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