Grade of Incomplete Procedure


Grade of Incomplete

Purpose: The incomplete grade procedure establishes a consistent College process for the assignment, documentation, and resolution of a temporary grade of Incomplete (I). This procedure supports equity, transparency, academic integrity, and timely student progression while ensuring alignment with Hudson County Community grading policies and the Academic Calendar.  

Scope: This procedure applies to all credit-bearing courses offered by Hudson County Community College. 

Definitions:

Grade of Incomplete (I): A temporary grade assigned by an instructor to allow a student additional time to complete the unfinished course work when compelling circumstances prevent completion by the end of the applicable session. 

Applicable Session: The academic period in which a course is offered, including 15-week Terms, 7-week Sessions, 12-Week Quick Term, Culinary (Day) Cycles, and Off-Site Sections, as published in the Academic Calendar.  

Incomplete Contract: Required written agreement between the instructor and the student that outlines the remaining course work, deadline for completion, and conditions for resolution of the Incomplete Grade. 

Procedure:

Eligibility Criteria

An instructor may assign a grade of Incomplete only when all of the following conditions are met: 

  • The student has maintained a satisfactory attendance.
  • The student has completed a substantial majority of the coursework at a satisfactory level.
  • The student has a compelling reason for not completing the course requirements by the end of the applicable session.
  • The student is likely to complete the unfinished course by the established deadline.

Incomplete Contract Requirement

  • An Incomplete grade must be documented using the College-approved Incomplete Contract.
  • The Contract must be completed and signed by both the student and instructor.
  • The contract must specify the remaining course work and the deadline for completion.

Completion Deadline

  • The Deadline for completion of all unfinished course work must be within 21 calendar days from the last day of the applicable session, in accordance with the Academic Calendar.
  • The instructor shall record the specific due date on the Incomplete Contract.
  • No extensions beyond the 21-calendar day limit will be granted. Faculty retain the right to change a grade.

Effective Date: Fall 2026. 

Approved: February 2026
Approved by Cabinet
Category: Academic Affairs
Subcategory: Grading Policy
Scheduled for Review: February 2028
Responsible Department: Academic Affairs

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