Maximum Timeframe For Program Completion (150% Rule)

What is the 150% rule?
The federal government regulates satisfactory academic progress for colleges. One element of satisfactory academic progress is determining the number of cumulative attempted credits that you have until you are no longer eligible to receive financial aid. This is called the 150% rule or maximum timeframe for program completion.

How is it calculated?
We use a worksheet that calculates the number of cumulative attempted credits and subtracts any developmental courses completed with a grade of "C" or better and any transfer credits that do not go toward your current major. Once you have graduated from a program, the number of credits in that program is subtracted from your cumulative attempted credits.

What are my options if I have reached the maximum?
If you have experienced extenuating circumstances while attending Lake Superior College, you may petition for a continuation of financial aid.

How do transfer credits affect the 150% rule?
Only the transfer credits that apply to your current major are used in the calculation of the 150% rule.

How do developmental courses affect the 150% rule?
Developmental courses that you have completed with a grade of "C" or better are subtracted from your total cumulative attempted credits.

How am I notified if I am reaching the maximum?
A letters is mailed to you if you have 30 or fewer credits remaining until you reach your maximum number of cumulative attempted credits.

Can I still receive student loans if I have reached the maximum under the 150% rule.
No. When you have reached the maximum under the 150% rule, you are no longer eligible for any financial aid, including grants and student loans. You may choose to explore alternative educational loans that are not certified by the college in order to pay for remaining credits in your program.

Who should I contact if I feel an error has been made in the calculation of the 150% rule?
You should contact a member of the financial aid staff. They are located in the Enrollment Services Center.

Does adding a new program increase my eligibility for financial aid?
No. The 150% rule is only calculated for the program that you are actively pursuing.

Do all of the credits that I take count in the calculation, even if they don't go toward my major?
Yes. Every credit that you attempt at Lake Superior College is included in the calculation of the 150% rule.

Is there a limit on the number of programs I can declare?
You can declare up to three programs, but the 150% calculation is based only on one program at a time. Once you complete a program, the number of credits in the completed program is subtracted from your total cumulative attempted credits.