EMT Student Book

7. SECTION 7 – ACADEMIC PROGRESS & EVALUATION

7.1 Purpose

Academic evaluation at Everlight Ministry of Theology (EMT) exists to ensure that every student demonstrates both intellectual excellence and spiritual maturity consistent with the standards of graduate theological education.

Learning at EMT is viewed as both an academic pursuit and a discipleship journey. Academic performance, integrity, and participation all reflect the student’s calling to steward knowledge faithfully.

7.2 Academic Standards of Performance

Graduate students must demonstrate the ability to think critically, write with clarity, and apply theological truth to ministry practice.

To maintain good academic standing, students must:

• Achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) or higher.
• Complete all required coursework and essays according to published deadlines.
• Show consistent engagement in discussions, mentorship, or ministry application components.
• Maintain Christian character, ethical conduct, and academic honesty.

Failure to meet these standards may result in academic probation or dismissal (see §6.5).

7.3 Evaluation Components

Academic evaluation at EMTI includes multiple dimensions designed to assess both knowledge and transformation:

Evaluation Type	Weight	Description
Research Essays / Projects	40–50%	Major academic papers (3,000–5,000 words) demonstrating research, analysis, and theological integration.
Capstone Thesis	20–30%	A final integrative research project (6,000–10,000 words) reflecting theological and practical mastery.
Participation & Engagement	10–15%	Involvement in online discussions, reflections, and peer feedback.
Ministry Application Reflections	10–15%	Written reflections connecting learning to ministry experience and spiritual growth.

All assessments are evaluated according to clear rubrics reflecting graduate-level academic criteria and spiritual discernment.

7.4 Grading System

Grades are assigned on a 4.0 scale in accordance with U.S. graduate academic norms and benchmark standards modeled after-based accrediting associations such as ATS and TRACS. A minimum grade of B (80%, GPA 3.0) is required to receive graduate credit and to remain in Good Academic Standing.

Letter Grade	Percentage Range	GPA Points	Performance Description
A	95 – 100 %	4.0	Outstanding / Exemplary — demonstrates exceptional scholarship, analytical skill, and theological depth.
A-	90 – 94 %	3.7	Excellent — strong work with clear insight and critical thinking.
B+	85 – 89 %	3.3	Very Good — solid, thoughtful work meeting graduate-level standards.
B	80 – 84 %	3.0	Satisfactory / Pass — meets minimum expectations for graduate credit.
B-	75 – 79 %	2.7	Marginal Pass — below graduate credit; not counted toward degree requirements.
C+ / C	70 – 74 %	2.3 / 2.0	Unsatisfactory — does not meet graduate standards; course must be retaken.
F	Below 70 %	0.0	Fail / No Credit — course must be retaken.

7.5 Academic Probation

A student whose cumulative GPA falls below 3.0 will be placed on Academic Probation for one subsequent term.

Probation Process

1. The student receives written notice of probation status.
2. The Academic Dean assigns an advisor or mentor for academic support.
3. The student must raise the GPA to 3.0 or higher by the end of the next term.
4. Failure to do so may result in academic suspension or dismissal from the program.

Probation is designed to be restorative, providing students with tools for improvement, not punitive action.

7.6 Course Completion and Incompletes

Students are expected to complete all assignments within the established course timeframe.

Incomplete Grades

An “I” (Incomplete) may be granted only for:

• Verified medical or family emergencies, or
• Prior approval from the Academic Dean.

Incomplete work must be finished within 30 days of the course end date, unless otherwise approved. Failure to do so will convert the grade to “F.”

7.7 Academic Progress Review

At the conclusion of each academic term, the Registrar reviews all student records for:

• GPA standing (≥3.0)
• Course completion and credit hours
• Conduct or integrity issues

Students in good standing will receive confirmation of progress toward degree completion.
Students below minimum standards will receive an official progress notice and guidance plan.

7.8 Academic Distinctions

Students demonstrating exceptional achievement may graduate with honors:

Honor	GPA Requirement
Graduation with Distinction	3.75 – 3.89
Graduation with High Distinction	3.90 – 3.99
President’s Honors (Summa Cum Laude)	4.00

Honors are conferred based on the final cumulative GPA and faculty recommendation.

7.9 Evaluation Integrity and Appeals

Students who believe an error occurred in grading may submit an Academic Appeal within 14 days of grade posting.
Appeals must include:

• The course name and instructor,
• The specific grade in question, and
• Clear reasoning with supporting documentation.

Appeals are reviewed by the Academic Dean, whose decision is final.

7.10 Continuous Enrollment and Progression

Students are expected to maintain continuous enrollment unless on an approved leave of absence.
Failure to enroll in any course for 12 consecutive months may result in administrative withdrawal.

Reinstatement requires approval from the Academic Dean and confirmation of active standing.

7.11 Summary Statement

EMT calls each student to a standard of excellence worthy of their calling in Christ.
Academic performance reflects not only intelligence but faithfulness — a disciplined pursuit of wisdom to serve God’s people with truth, humility, and integrity.
“Study to show yourself approved unto God…” — 2 Timothy 2:15