Repeating a Class

Repeating a class at UC Santa Cruz

Repeats can help you raise your GPA, meet major-qualification thresholds, or master material you’ll need later—but they also use time, units, and (sometimes) financial aid eligibility. Use the guidelines and links below to decide whether a repeat is the right move and, if so, how to do it correctly.

A repeat can rescue your GPA—or cost you time and units. Check the rules, file petitions on time, and partner with your advisor to choose the smartest path forward.

Should I repeat a class?

Repeat only when it moves you closer to your goal—e.g., raising your GPA or to clear a major-qualification hurdle. Talk with your college or major advisor first; they’ll help you weigh alternatives such as tutoring, P/NP grading, or adjusting your study plan.

How to repeat

Review policy basics on the Registrar’s Repeating Courses page.
Second attempt: Enroll in MyUCSC once your prior grade (or W/NP) is recorded.
Third attempt (triple-take): Meet with your advisor to review the policy and process, including considerations, logistics and timing.
After the repeat: Monitor your GPA and degree planner to confirm the new grade has been applied as expected.

Double-repeat (triple-take) policy overview

The Double-Repeat Policy (sometimes called “Triple-Take”) is designed to support student success and timely graduation.

Undeclared students: You must show documentation of an extenuating circumstance if you wish to attempt a course for the third time. Conversations with your advisor will focus on your strengths, options for success, and identifying a viable major that aligns with your values, interests, and goals.
Declared students: If you want to repeat a major requirement for the third time, your request will be considered in light of your overall degree timeline, available resources, and whether alternative degree pathways are possible. You must also provide documentation of extenuating circumstances.
Multiple programs: Requests are not approved simply to finish a double major or major/minor combination. If you are in multiple programs, you may need to reduce to your most viable single major, or—if allowed—complete the course at another institution.

The goal of this policy is to help you identify the most realistic path to completing your degree.

General guidelines

Approval required: Taking a course more than twice requires approval from your college and includes review by the academic department.
Eligibility: You may repeat a course if you earned below C/P (C-, D+, D, D-, F, NP, or W).
Grading basis: Courses previously completed with C-, D+, D, D-, or F must be repeated for a letter grade.
Credit: Credit is awarded only once. If you re-take the course, the new grade is recorded, but you do not earn additional units.
For details, see Academic Senate Regulation 9.1.8.

Instructions for students

Step 1: Meet with your college advisor

Your advisor will help you determine whether a petition is the best path forward. If so, they will provide the DocuSign petition link.

Step 2: Complete “Section A” of the DocuSign form

The form will then route to your academic advisors for review.

Tips for Section A:

Class #: Enter “n/a” if class search is not yet available.
Attempts: Add a comment with the grades you received in prior attempts.
Major/Discipline: Select your major (for WRIT 1 or WRIT 2, choose “Writing Program”).
Quarters of Eligibility: Ask your college advisor if you’re unsure.
Student Advising Summary: Use the [instructions to find your summary].
Justification Statement: Write and save as a PDF to upload.

Note: Students needing to repeat the College 1 (core) course for a second time should not use this process. Instead, book an appointment with your college advisor.

Tracking your petition

After submission, log into DocuSign and check “Waiting for Others” to view status.
When “Waiting for Others” equals zero, your petition is complete.
You can also review status via Envelope Status in DocuSign.

Logistics and timing

Petitions are due no later than the first day of instruction.
Late petitions may not be considered.
Processing time is typically 2–4 weeks due to consultations.
Approval does not guarantee course space—enrollment is subject to availability.

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