Liberty University uses a 1,000-point system where undergraduate courses are graded on a 100-point scale and graduate/doctoral courses on an 80-point scale, with letter grades mapped to specific percentage ranges as outlined in their official grading scale. Online grading systems like Liberty’s help standardize evaluation across programs.
What happens if I fail a class at Liberty University?
Failing a class at Liberty University can lead to academic dismissal if your cumulative GPA doesn't meet the required level by the end of the next semester or if you break terms of your Academic Contract without qualifying for Academic Amnesty.
If you get an FN (Failure-Non attendance) or F, those zero-quality-point grades count toward your GPA. Should dismissal happen, you can usually petition for readmission after one semester—though that depends on your academic standing and situation. (Timing varies, so check with your advisor.)
What is a passing grade at Liberty University?
A passing grade at Liberty University is 70% or higher, with grades of 69.5% and above rounded up to pass for undergraduate, graduate, and online courses. Research on grading standards often explores how institutions define passing thresholds.
This rule applies across the board, though some programs set their own minimums. Passing grades help your GPA; anything below 69.5% won’t earn quality points and could put you on academic probation if your cumulative GPA drops below 2.0 (undergrad) or the program’s minimum (grad).
How does Liberty University calculate GPA?
Liberty University calculates GPA by dividing total quality points earned by the total GPA hours completed in a semester or cumulatively.
Say you finish 16 semester hours and earn 40 quality points—that’s a 2.50 GPA (40 ÷ 16 = 2.50). Quality points come from multiplying credit hours by the grade’s point value (e.g., an A = 4.0 per credit hour). Just remember: graduate programs sometimes use different scales, so double-check your program’s rules.
What is the class size at Liberty University?
Liberty University keeps a student-faculty ratio of 17:1, with 33.2% of classes having fewer than 20 students as of 2024-2025. Grading processes can vary between large lectures and small seminars.
That mix includes big lecture halls and smaller discussion-based classes, especially in residential programs. Online courses run the gamut—some have hundreds of students, while graduate or discussion-heavy courses stay small. For program-specific trends, peek at Liberty’s institutional data page.
What is considered full time at Liberty University?
Full-time status at Liberty University means taking at least 12 credit hours per semester for undergrads, while part-time is 6 to 11 credit hours.
Online programs sometimes let you hit full-time status faster—like finishing 6 credits in an 8-week term. Always confirm your status with your advisor, especially if financial aid is involved, since it can change eligibility and payout timing.
Can you pass with ad Liberty University?
Yes, you can pass a course at Liberty University with a D or higher, though some programs or grad schools require higher minimums for prerequisites or transfer credit. Critics of standards-based grading argue that low passing thresholds may not reflect true mastery.
Federal aid will cover a D, but repeated courses under the Undergraduate Repeat Policy have limits. Review your Degree Completion Plan and chat with your advisor to make sure your grades match your program’s goals and future plans.
What does FN mean for a grade?
FN means Failure-Non attendance—you stopped participating, so you get a 0.0 that counts toward your GPA at Liberty University.
Unlike a regular F (which can happen even if you attend), an FN signals zero involvement. That can mess with financial aid, too. If you get an FN, talk to your instructor ASAP about reinstatement or withdrawal to dodge penalties.
What are the rules at Liberty University?
Liberty University requires residential students to be unmarried, 17-24 years old, and enrolled in a residential degree program with at least one residential credit hour to live on campus.
Students aged 25-30 might qualify for Independent & Graduate Housing if space allows. Everyone must follow the Student Handbook’s conduct and academic integrity rules. Online students face fewer residential rules but still have to meet online participation and conduct standards.
What is a failing grade at Liberty University?
Liberty University counts grades of D- (0.67 quality points) and below as failing, including F (0.0) and FN (0.0 for non-attendance), plus I (Incomplete) which turns into an F if not resolved.
| Grade | Meaning | Quality Points |
|---|
| D- | Very Poor | 0.67 |
| F | Failure | 0.00 |
| FN | Failure for Non-Attendance | 0.00 |
| I | Incomplete | 0.00 |
Incompletes must be finished by the end of the next long semester or they flip to an F. Check your syllabus and Academic Catalog for the exact policies on incomplete grades and how they affect your GPA and progress.
Can I double major at Liberty University?
Yes, you can double major at Liberty University, but you must finish every requirement for both majors and complete at least 25% of each major’s coursework at Liberty before your degree is awarded.
Double majors follow the same GPA and residency rules as single majors. Adding a second major can stretch your graduation timeline, so plan with your advisor to balance your course load. Some majors have extra hoops—always review your Degree Completion Plan first.
Is a degree from Liberty University respected?
A Liberty University degree carries weight thanks to its regional accreditation and academic rigor, though its conservative Christian identity might shape opinions in certain circles.
Liberty’s SACSCOC accreditation is what most grad schools and employers look for. That said, perceptions vary by field, so do your homework if you’re targeting specific programs or employers. With a 51% acceptance rate, Liberty’s selectivity can actually boost its reputation in competitive fields.
Is Liberty University a party school?
No, Liberty University isn’t a party school—its policies and handbook emphasize academics, spiritual growth, and community standards.
Campus life includes clubs and events, but alcohol, tobacco, and co-ed dorm visits are off-limits. The vibe leans toward structure and purpose, which suits students who want that kind of environment. If you’re after a more laid-back or social college experience, Liberty’s rules might feel restrictive.
How much does it cost to go to Liberty University for 4 years?
As of the 2026-2027 academic year, total estimated costs for a 4-year residential degree at Liberty University run roughly $140,000 to $160,000, depending on housing and fee changes.
| Year | Tuition & Fees (Est.) | On-Campus Room & Board (Est.) |
|---|
| 2026-2027 | $29,500 | $11,500 |
| 2027-2028 | $30,200 | $11,800 |
| 2028-2029 | $30,900 | $12,100 |
| 2029-2030 | $31,600 | $12,400 |
These numbers cover tuition, mandatory fees, and on-campus housing but leave out textbooks, travel, personal spending, or program-specific costs like lab fees. For a tailored estimate, plug your info into Liberty’s Net Price Calculator.
Can I double major at Liberty University?
Yes, you can double major at Liberty University, but you must complete all requirements for both majors and earn at least 25% of the coursework for each major at Liberty before your degree is conferred.
Double majors follow the same GPA and residency rules as single majors. Adding a second major can extend your time to graduation, so plan carefully with your advisor to avoid overloading your schedule. Some majors have extra restrictions—always check your Degree Completion Plan for specifics.
