Previous General University Grading Systems

The following summarizes the previous versions of the General University Grading System. For the current version, visit General University Grading System.

Effective AY 1995/96 through Spring Quarter 2008

Notes:

• The grades A, B, and C were redefined, NP and W were added, and “+” was changed to CR.
• Autumn 1994-95: RP was introduced to replace the original grade for a course later retaken. 
• The grade of “I” (incomplete) was changed to automatically lapse to NP or NC after one year.

Effective Academic Years 1989/90 through 1994/95

Notes: 

• The P notation was changed to S (Satisfactory). 
• The lowest acceptable grade for either S or “+” became C-.

Effective Academi Years 1975/76 through 1988/89

Notes: 

• Under this system, Stanford restored the D grade, defining it as “Minimal Pass.” Pass notations (“+” and P) were redefined to encompass all passing grades, A through D.
• Summer Quarter 1972-73: P was introduced to denote pass in a course offered only pass/no credit at the option of the instructor.
• Spring Quarter 1971-72: “+” and “-” as grade modifiers were reintroduced for all students.
• Autumn Quarter 1971-72: “+” and “-” as grade modifiers were reintroduced for graduate students.

Effective Academic Years 1970/71 through 1974/75

Notes: 

• The grades A, B, C, and “+” were redefined: D, E, F, W, and “-” were dropped from the grading system. 
• Under the prior system, the university maintained records of all courses a student attempted. Under the revised system, the only courses recorded were those that were successfully completed or for which an “I” (incomplete) grade was given. 
• The revised system also allowed a student or instructor to request the deletion of an “I” grade from a student’s record if the student did not meet the requirements of the course within the time limit determined by the instructor. 
• The use of the modifying suffixes “+” and “-” appended to letter grades was discontinued.

Effective Academic Years 1963/64 through 1969/70

Prior to Academic Year 1963/64