FAQs on Requesting Incompletes
What is an Incomplete (INC)?
An incomplete indicates that not all the work of a course has been completed by the time of grade submission at the end of the semester. It is a temporary grade that will be replaced by a final grade.
Who is eligible to request an Incomplete?
An incomplete is permitted in a course where the level of work done up to the point the student requests an Incomplete is considered passing. An incomplete is permitted under the Faculty Code "for reasons of illness or extreme emergency, and for no other reason.”
How do I request an Incomplete?
Students should speak directly with the instructor(s) in each course in which they are requesting an Incomplete.
Do I need documentation from HCC?
Faculty determine what verifying information (if any) is needed on a case-by-case basis. When documentation is requested by faculty to support a request for an Incomplete, both the HCC and the Student Life Office can assist with communication to faculty.
What if I do not qualify for an Incomplete?
If a student does not qualify for an Incomplete because they are not doing passing work at the time of the request, they may be at risk of failing that class. Students are encouraged to consult with their faculty, their faculty advisor, Academic Support, and Student Life about strategies for identifying available pathways for passing specific courses.
If a student does not qualify for an Incomplete because their situation does not meet the standard of "illness or extreme emergency," they will will be expected to complete the course on time. Students are encouraged to use Academic Support resources and are welcome to meet with a Student Life dean to discuss academic strategy.
What if I am not granted an Incomplete? Can I appeal?
The decision whether or not to grant an Incomplete in a course is within the purview of the faculty for that course, and there is no appeal.
If a student believes that they cannot complete the semester for a health/mental health reason, the student may want to explore a medical leave of absence. Students are encouraged to consult with a dean in Student Life, Financial Aid, Business Office and the Health and Counseling Center if they are considering this option.
When is deadline to complete the work?
Deadlines for completing required work are determined by the instructor, but in no case may the date for completion be later than four weeks after the end of the coursework's semester. See Reed's academic calendar for specific dates.
If the student has not completed all of the work for the course at the time incomplete work is due, the instructor will assign a grade based on the work received.
Extensions of the deadline for making up incomplete work may be granted by the Administration Committee only in cases where circumstances are compelling and are beyond the control of the student. Students must petition the Administration Committee for such exceptions and should do so before the deadline.
How does an Incomplete work if I am on academic probation?
If the placeholder grade is satisfactory, a decision about a student's academic standing can be made prior to the resolution of the Incomplete.
If the placeholder grade is unsatisfactory, the decision about the student's academic standing (i.e., whether or not they will be denied registration) must wait until the final grade is recorded.