The University of Kentucky provides Rebound, a support program for first-year students facing academic challenges. It targets those with a GPA below 0.6 (suspension risk) or 0.6–1.99 (probation) after their first semester. Eligible students will be invited to join; participation is mandatory for suspension-risk students and optional for those on probation. Rebound provides a two-semester course on study skills, goal-setting, and executive functioning. Students who complete the program can have their fall 2025 grades removed, offering a fresh academic start and a stronger foundation for success.
Rebound Program
What is the Rebound Program?
What is included in the Rebound Program?
- In Spring of 2026, students will be enrolled in a course designed to prepare students for the demands of future coursework.
- In Fall of 2026, students will be enrolled in a 1-credit hour course designed to continue supporting students in maintaining their personal and academic goals.
- Free Integrated Success Coaching.
- A community of peers also working on setting new goals and building out their academic skills toolkit.
Benefits of the Rebound Program
- Instead of suspension, students will be placed on academic probation.
Click here for details on suspensions and probations - Students who complete the Rebound Program will build a strong foundation for success.
- Those who meet all program requirements by the end of Fall 2026 will qualify for a retroactive withdrawal from all Fall 2026 courses. These grades will be replaced with W’s and removed from the cumulative GPA.
Costs of the Rebound Program
- The two Rebound courses do not count toward degree requirements but will be billed as regular tuition.
- Students who successfully complete the program will receive a retroactive withdrawal—all Fall 2025 grades will be replaced with W’s, and any credits earned that term will be removed from their record.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between mandatory and optional responsibilities?
Mandatory: If you’re required to join Rebound, you’ll take two courses — a 2-credit hour course in the spring term and a 1-credit hour course in fall term. You must earn a C or higher in both. When you complete all requirements, you’ll receive an expedited retroactive withdrawal from your Fall 2025 semester.
If you don’t meet expectations, you will be academically suspended.
Optional: If your participation is optional, you’re encouraged — but not required — to join. You can withdraw from the program anytime, and you don’t have to complete a retroactive withdrawal.
If you decide to pursue a retroactive withdrawal, you’ll follow the regular process.
Who should join?
You should join Rebound if you:
- Want to defer suspension and stay enrolled at UK
- Want extra academic support while on probation
What will you need to do?
- At the end of Fall 2025, you’ll get a Rebound invitation letter from your academic advisor with details and an enrollment link.
- Mandatory students must enroll by the deadline to remain at UK.
- Complete both Rebound courses (Spring and Fall) with a C or better.
- Reach out to your academic advisor with questions or for help enrolling.
How do you enroll?
At the end of the fall semester, follow the link in your Rebound letter to confirm your participation and accept the program terms. If you did not receive a Rebound letter, reach out to your academic advisor.
What can I expect in the course?
Classes are small, discussion-based, and focused on personal growth and success. Rebound classes help you rebuild strong academic habits through:
- Goal setting and time management
- Study strategies and reflection activities
- One-on-one coaching with Integrated Success Coaches
Can I enroll in other courses in addition to the Rebound courses?
You will work with your academic advisor to create your schedule.
You can take up to 15 total credit hours each semester, including one Rebound course.
What communication and support will I receive?
- Your college’s advising team will send your official Rebound letter.
- Your academic advisor and Rebound staff will follow up with additional information.
What is the enrollment process?
After you accept Rebound, your status will be updated and course overrides added. You’ll meet with your advisor to confirm your spring schedule, then register yourself for your Rebound section.
How is my progress tracked?
Your Success Coach will check in throughout the semester and share updates with your advisor.
You’ll also receive midterm progress feedback on attendance and performance.
What are the benefits for Rebound?
- Learn key skills for success: time management, goal setting, and self-discipline
- Stay enrolled and avoid suspension
- Build a stronger foundation for your degree
- Earn a retroactive withdrawal after completing the program
What is a Retroactive Withdrawal?
When you complete Rebound:
- You’ll retroactively withdraw from your entire Fall 2025 semester.
- All grades will be replaced with W’s and won’t affect your GPA.
- Mandatory students must do this; optional students can choose to this.
What is the financial impact?
- Rebound courses count toward tuition like any other class.
- If you take 12–19 credit hours, there are no additional tuition fees.
- The full RWA means even passed courses from Fall 2025 will become W’s.
What are the Financial Aid and SAP (Satisfactory Academic Progress) Requirements?
- You must maintain at least a 2.0 GPA and 66.67% completion rate to keep financial aid.
- If you don’t meet SAP , aid may be suspended — but you can appeal.
- Your appeal should highlight Rebound participation and your academic improvement.
- If approved, you’ll stay on Financial Aid Probation, needing an 80% completion rate and 2.1 GPA.
Can I drop or withdraw?
You can drop other classes, but not your Rebound course.
If you try to drop it, you’ll need to meet with your advisor — and doing so will mean not completing the program, which could lead to suspension.
Will Rebound impact my scholarship?
Check directly with the Financial Aid and Scholarships office to confirm how Rebound participation might affect your funding.
What happens if I don't meet the Rebound requirements?
If you don’t successfully complete Rebound, you will be suspended if your participation was mandatory in the program.
Questions?
Students should contact their Academic Advisor with any questions.