Repairing Your Past to Finish Strong
It’s never too late to turn things around. If you’re returning to college after time away—or coming back after a rocky academic start—you’re not alone. Many successful adult learners have overcome past setbacks to finish strong, earn their degree, and transform their lives.
The experience you bring matters, and the determination you have now will carry you through. You’ve got what it takes. This page is your starting point to understand your options, take control of your academic future, and confidently move forward. Let’s get to work.
Recalculating Your GPA – What you Need to Know
Understanding how your Grade Point Average (GPA) works is key to repairing your academic record and planning your next steps.
Your GPA is the average of all your final course grades, typically on a 4.0 scale:
- A = 4.0
- B = 3.0
- C = 2.0
- D = 1.0
- F = 0.0
Each grade is weighted by the number of credit hours the course is worth. So, a 3-credit hour course with a B (3.0) carries more weight than a 1-credit course with a C (2.0).
Understand Where You Stand
Before you can move forward, you need a clear picture of your academic history. Depending on your academic standing and graduation requirements – you will need at least a 2.0 GPA to remain in good standing or to graduate. Some programs or scholarships may require a higher GPA – always confirm with your academic advisor what GPA you’re aiming for based on your program.
Schedule a Meeting with an Academic Advisor. They’ll help you:
- Review your GPA and how it’s calculated
- Identify which grades still count
- Determine if any courses can be retaken or replaced
- Explore your academic standing and options
Repairing Your GPA — Real Options
There’s no single path to raising your GPA, but there are several strategies that can work for adult learners like you:
Grade Replacement Retaking courses in which you earned a D or F can have a significant impact. The new grade may replace the old one in your GPA. Your academic advisor can help you understand UNO’s grade replacement policies. Even when old grades remain on your transcript, the new grade shows improvement and often boosts your cumulative GPA.
Academic Amnesty DCS offers “academic forgiveness” for students who’ve met certain criteria to be eligible for completing Academic Amnesty. This can remove old, low-performing grades from your GPA calculation. Check with your academic advisor about eligibility.
Focus on High-Impact Courses Taking classes you’re confident in—or that align with your strengths—can help you build momentum and boost your GPA more effectively.
Rebuild with Intention Start small if needed. Consider a reduced course load as you re-enter college life. Focus on quality, not quantity to build success.
Use Your Support Systems
You’re not doing this alone. Take advantage of the resources available to help you succeed:
- Online Tutoring – Personalized strategies to help you study smarter available in COMPASS.
- UNO Academic Support Centers – Get support with math, writing, and other core skills.
- Wellness Support – Counseling to help manage stress and balance life is available through CAPS.
Success Tip: Don’t wait until you’re struggling—reach out early. That’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
GPA Recovery is a Process – Design your Comeback Plan
Improving your GPA takes time, but every good grade helps. You can reclaim your academic confidence, one grade at a time. The key is to:
- Make a realistic plan
- Use support resources
- Track your progress
Every step you take is part of your comeback story – and you’re already on your way!
Previous Student Comeback Stories
From a 1.5 GPA to One Semester from Graduation
One student came to UNO carrying a 1.5 GPA from previous coursework at UNL. They doubted whether finishing a degree was even possible. But after meeting with an academic advisor and creating a customized plan, the student completed the Academic Amnesty process.
That reset gave them a second chance. With renewed motivation, their GPA rose significantly. Now, they’re just one semester away from graduation and proud of what they’ve overcome.
Returning After 10 Years—And Thriving
Another student returned to college after a 10-year break. Initially nervous about coming back, they soon realized they had more motivation and maturity than they did at 19. They retook a few early courses to repair their GPA, but the biggest shift was internal: they truly believed in themselves.
With consistent effort and support, they now maintain a 3.5 GPA and are thriving in their return to higher education.
A Fresh Start After Academic Probation
A student began college right after high school but struggled to balance work, family, and school. After falling into academic probation, they stepped away, uncertain if they would ever return. Years later, they re-enrolled in a program designed for adult learners.
With help from their academic advisor and weekly tutoring, they rebuilt both their GPA and their confidence. Today, they’re back in good standing and inspiring others who are on the same path.
Turning Career Experience into Academic Momentum
After more than a decade in the workforce, one student decided it was time to finish their degree. Their earlier college record was inconsistent, and their GPA was low. But they brought valuable career experience and a clear sense of purpose.
With guidance from an academic advisor, they explored GPA repair strategies and retook a few key courses. Their GPA began to climb, and they are now on track to graduate—with eyes on graduate school and new professional opportunities.
Finding Confidence Through a Second Chance
One student returned to college later in life after raising a family and working full-time. Their original transcript showed years of failed courses and withdrawals. But after learning about academic forgiveness options, they realized their story wasn’t over. They took it slow—one course at a time—and leaned into academic support services.
Over time, their GPA improved, and they built a strong academic foundation. Today, they’re excelling and have even been invited to join the academic honor society, Alpha Sigma Lambda.