Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Grade Requirements

We’re happy to answer your questions if you don’t find them listed in our FAQ section. Contact us at mba@u.washington.edu or 1-866-778-9622.

Why is an X grade appearing on MyUW for one of my classes?  
An X grade appears on the transcript when the professor has not yet submitted a grade. Contact the instructor directly to find out if there is a problem with your grade or if the instructor was simply late in submitting grades to the UW.

Why did I receive a low grade in one of my classes?
To determine why you received a low grade in any of your classes (core or elective), talk directly with the instructor of the class.

What is the lowest passing grade for an MBA class?
The lowest grade that the Graduate School counts toward UW graduate degree requirements (including the MBA degree) in any class is a 2.7. Please see the Graduate School Web site for additional information.

What is the minimum GPA required to graduate?
The UW Graduate School requires students to have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in order to graduate. Review the Graduate School grading system for more information.

Can I take a class pass/fail and count it toward my degree?
In general, the only classes you can take pass/fail (or credit/no credit) are ones that are graded only on that basis (such as the Global Business Forum or Study Tours) and independent study classes. Classes that are normally graded on a 4.0 scale may not be taken pass/fail if you wish to count them toward your degree.

Can I sign up for satisfactory/not satisfactory (S/NS) grading for my classes?
S/NS is a grading option you can choose when you register for classes on MyUW. The MBA Program does not count classes graded S/NS toward your MBA degree.

Can I audit a class?
You can audit classes at the instructor’s discretion; however, audited classes are not counted toward your MBA degree. Students in audit status do have to pay for the credits for the audited class.  See the UW Registrar’s Web site on Auditing classes.