Study and Examination Regulations for the Undergraduate Level and Their Executive Rules at Jouf University 1445 AH / 2023 AD

Chapter One: Definitions

Article One

The following terms and phrases, wherever mentioned in these regulations, shall have the meanings assigned to each of them, unless the context indicates otherwise:

Academic Year: Two or more semesters and a summer semester if any, or four or more levels and a summer level or two summer levels if any.

Study System: The method of study followed in the university’s colleges and institutes, whether based on the level system, the semester system, or the full academic year system.

Semester: A time period not less than fifteen (15) weeks in the two-semester system, and not less than twelve (12) weeks in the three-semester system, excluding registration, add/drop, and final examination periods.

Level: A study format whose duration is shorter than a semester, not less than four (4) weeks and not more than eight (8) weeks, provided that the total study weeks in the academic year are not less than forty (40) weeks.

Full Academic Year: A time period not less than forty (40) weeks per year.

Summer Semester: A time period not less than eight (8) weeks in the two-semester system, and not less than six (6) weeks in the three-semester system, during which the allocated time for each course is doubled.

Summer Level: A time period not less than four (4) weeks in the level-based system, during which the allocated time for each course is doubled.

Study Plan: A group of compulsory, elective, and free courses constituting the total credit units required for graduation, which the student must successfully complete to obtain the academic degree in the specified major.

Course: An academic subject within the program plan, consisting of a number, a code, and a description of its content. It is subject to monitoring, evaluation, and development at the department level. It may be studied independently or may have prerequisites or co-requisites.

Credit Unit: A weekly theoretical lecture, clinical session, or exercise with a duration not less than fifty (50) minutes, or a practical session not less than one hundred (100) minutes, or a field training session specified in the study plan.

Modes of Learning: Various methods of teaching including face-to-face learning, blended learning, distance learning, self-learning, and other recognized learning modalities.

Academic Bridging Program (Upgrading Program): A program designed to transfer from a diploma qualification to a bachelor’s degree.

Coursework Grade: The grade awarded for activities completed by the student during a level, semester, or full academic year if applicable, including examinations, research projects, and educational activities related to the course.

Final Examination: An examination in a course conducted once at the end of its instructional period in the level, semester, or full academic year.

Final Examination Grade: The grade obtained by the student in the final examination of each course.

Final Grade: The sum of the coursework grade and the final examination grade for each course, calculated out of one hundred (100).

Visiting Student: A student who studies certain courses at another university or at any branch of the same university without transferring.

Grade: A descriptive percentage or alphabetical symbol assigned to the final grade obtained by the student in any course.

Incomplete Grade: A grade assigned to any course in which the student is unable to complete the requirements within the specified timeframe. It is recorded in the student’s academic record with the symbol (IC).

In-Progress Grade: A grade assigned to any course that requires more than one semester to be completed. It is recorded with the symbol (IP).

Semester GPA: The quotient of the total grade points earned by the student divided by the total prescribed credit units of all courses taken in any semester, level, or full academic year. Grade points are calculated by multiplying the course’s credit unit by the grade weight earned in that course.

Cumulative GPA: The quotient of the total grade points earned in all courses taken by the student since admission divided by the total prescribed credit units of those courses.

Overall Academic Classification: A description of the student’s academic achievement during their period of study at the university.

Academic Load: The total number of credit units a student is allowed to register for in a specific level, semester, or full academic year as determined by the University Council.

Chapter Two: Objectives and Scope of the Regulations

Article Two

These regulations aim to organize the mechanisms and procedures of study and examinations at the university in a manner that enhances the efficiency and quality of the educational process and the academic procedures for the post-secondary stage.

Article Three

The provisions of these regulations apply to universities operating under the Higher Education and Universities Council System issued by Royal Decree No. (M/8) dated 4/6/1414 AH, and to universities operating under the Universities System issued by Royal Decree No. (M/27) dated 2/3/1441 AH.

Chapter Three: Study Systems

Article Four

1. The university shall comply with the following when approving its academic programs, in the order listed below:

A. The Saudi Unified Classification for Levels and Fields of Education issued by the Council of Ministers Resolution No. (75) dated 27/1/1442 AH, and any amendments or updates thereto.

B. The National Qualifications Framework in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued by the Board of Directors of the Education and Training Evaluation Commission in its first meeting of the second session held on 16/6/1441 AH, and any amendments or updates thereto.

2. The student shall progress in the study according to the study system and the study plan approved by the University Council.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The colleges of the university shall adhere to the Saudi Unified Classification for Levels and Fields of Education issued by the Council of Ministers Resolution No. (75) dated 27/1/1442 AH, and the National Qualifications Framework in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued by the Board of Directors of the Education and Training Evaluation Commission in its first meeting of the second session held on 16/6/1441 AH, and any amendments or updates thereto, when preparing their academic programs.
2. The University Council’s resolution approving any academic program shall include the program’s name, its code, the sub-discipline code, and the number of credit units for the program.
3. The student shall progress in the study according to the academic program approved by the University Council, and shall be considered as having completed the requirements of the semester or the academic year if they successfully pass all courses for that semester or year, or the equivalent approved credit hours.
4. The student is responsible for knowing and following the study system and the regulations governing it, including graduation requirements.

Article Five

The academic year is divided, and the graduation requirements for the academic degree are distributed according to the study system and the study plan approved by the University Council as follows:

1. Two or more academic semesters, with an optional summer semester whose duration shall be counted as half the duration of the regular semester.
2. Four or more study levels, with each level being not less than four (4) weeks and not more than eight (8) weeks, provided that the total study weeks throughout the year are not less than forty (40) weeks. A summer level or two summer levels may be offered if any, provided that its duration is counted as half the duration of the regular level.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The Deanship of Admission and Registration shall prepare the academic calendar in coordination with the relevant entities at the university and submit it to the University Council for approval.
2. The number of academic semesters in the academic year shall be determined based on what is approved by the University Council in the academic calendar.
3. Offering a summer semester requires the approval of the University Council based on a recommendation from the relevant college council and according to the regulations determined by the Vice Presidency for Educational Affairs.

Article Six

Study in some colleges and institutes may be based on the full academic year system in accordance with the rules and procedures approved by the University Council.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. Study may be based on the full academic year system in some colleges, according to the rules and procedures stipulated in these regulations, by replacing the term “semester” with “academic year” wherever mentioned, while observing the academic calendar approved by the University Council for the annual system based on what is approved by the Council of Ministers.
2. Courses in the annual system shall be offered throughout an academic year not less than forty (40) weeks, excluding course registration and final examination periods.

Article Seven

Subject to the decisions issued by the Universities Affairs Council, the University Council may, based on proposals from the colleges or institutes councils, adopt one or more modes of learning for academic programs whose nature allows such modes.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The University Council may, based on proposals from colleges councils, academic departments, and the Permanent Committee for Curricula, Study Plans, and Textbooks, adopt one or more modes of learning for programs whose nature allows such modes.
2. The department may modify the teaching mode of a course each semester after the approval of the Permanent Committee for Curricula, Study Plans, and Textbooks.
3. The course instructor shall adhere to the approved mode of learning in accordance with items (1) and (2).
4. Implementing this article shall consider Article Four and its executive rules.

Article Eight

The study plan shall include courses whose total credit units are not less than 10% of the total study plan and that are offered in one or more modes of learning different from face-to-face learning. The University Council shall determine the regulatory conditions for this.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. In alignment with relevant regulations and policies, university colleges may deliver their programs using one or more non-face-to-face learning modes in accordance with the standards approved by the University Council.
2. Implementing this article shall consider Article Eight and its executive rules.
3. Quality standards shall be observed in courses delivered using non-face-to-face learning modes.

Article Nine

1. The University Council may approve the following based on proposals from colleges councils:

A. Academic Bridging Programs (Upgrading Programs) in specific majors in accordance with the regulations approved by the Universities Affairs Council.

B. Interdisciplinary programs.

2. The University Council may, based on proposals from colleges or institutes councils, admit a student holding a bachelor’s degree in one major to study for a bachelor’s degree in another major.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. Some colleges may offer Academic Bridging Programs (Upgrading Programs) in accordance with the regulations approved by the University Council based on what is stipulated by the Universities Affairs Council.
2. Colleges councils shall determine the regulations and procedures governing Academic Bridging Programs, interdisciplinary programs suitable for academic departments, or the addition of a major, minor, or support field, in accordance with the rules approved by the University Council and in consistency with these regulations and their executive rules.
3. The University Council shall consider Article Four and its executive rules when approving Academic Bridging Programs and interdisciplinary programs.
4. A student holding a bachelor’s degree in one major may be admitted to study a bachelor’s degree in another major, in accordance with the admission regulations approved by the University Council.

Chapter Four: Admission

Article Ten

The University Council may grant a diploma degree in the same major to a student who has completed a number of credit hours but has not fulfilled the requirements for a bachelor’s degree, in accordance with the regulations approved by the University Council and without contradicting the Saudi Unified Classification for Levels and Fields of Education issued by the Council of Ministers Resolution No. (75) dated 27/1/1442 AH and its amendments and updates, and the National Qualifications Framework in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued by the Board of Directors of the Education and Training Evaluation Commission in its first meeting of the second session held on 16/6/1441 AH and its amendments and updates.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. Colleges shall define exit points within their academic programs, ensuring that the program learning outcomes at these points align with the Saudi Unified Classification for Levels and Fields of Education and the National Qualifications Framework in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
2. Colleges shall propose regulations for granting a diploma degree to a student who has completed a number of hours and reached the approved exit point of the program. These regulations must be approved by the University Council.
3. The University Council shall grant the diploma degree in the same specialty to a student who has reached the approved exit point in the program in accordance with the regulations approved by the University Council.
4. Academic departments shall update the program specifications that include exit points in accordance with the templates approved by the Education and Training Evaluation Commission, and such updates shall be approved by the College Council and the Permanent Committee for Curricula, Study Plans, and Textbooks.

Article Eleven

Taking into account the resolutions issued by the Universities Affairs Council, national development requirements, and labor market supply-demand forecast reports issued by the relevant authorities, the University Council shall, based on proposals from colleges councils or their counterparts in the university, determine the admission conditions and number of students who may be admitted in each academic year.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

First: The University Council shall determine the number of students who may be admitted in the academic year based on proposals from the colleges councils, the Deanship of Admission and Registration, and relevant entities in the university.

Second: The Deanship of Admission and Registration shall, in coordination with relevant university entities, submit to the University Council a proposal regarding the number of male and female students who may be admitted in the following academic year.

Third: Applicants who meet the admission criteria shall be ranked competitively based on their high school certificate scores and admission test results, and personal interview if required, or any other criteria approved by the University Council.

Fourth: To be admitted as a new student, the applicant must:

1. Hold a high school certificate or its equivalent from inside or outside the Kingdom.
2. Have good conduct and behavior.
3. Successfully pass any tests or personal interviews required by the University Council.
4. Be medically fit for majors that require it.
5. Obtain approval from their employer if they work in any government or private entity.
6. Meet any additional conditions set by the University Council and announced during the admission period.

Fifth: A student dismissed from a university for academic reasons may be admitted based on what is approved by the University Council or its delegate.

Sixth: The student must not be enrolled as a regular student in the same university or any other university inside or outside the Kingdom.

Seventh: The Deanship of Admission and Registration, in coordination with the colleges, shall determine the majors available for admission based on labor market needs and the specialization requirements set by colleges councils.

Article Twelve

Subject to Articles Nine and Ten of these regulations, a student holding:

1. A diploma degree (or equivalent) may be admitted to complete their study toward the bachelor’s degree with a possibility of course equivalency.
2. A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a specific major may be admitted to obtain a bachelor’s degree in another major with a possibility of course equivalency.

The executive rules of these regulations shall determine the conditions and procedures for this, including the possibility of counting the equivalent courses within the student’s cumulative GPA in the academic record.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

The University Council shall approve, based on recommendations submitted by the Deanship of Admission and Registration in coordination with the concerned colleges, the conditions and procedures for admitting a student holding:

1. A diploma degree (or equivalent) to complete their study toward the bachelor’s degree with a possibility of course equivalency.
2. A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a specific major to obtain a bachelor’s degree in another major with a possibility of course equivalency.

Chapter Five: Academic Procedures

Article Thirteen

The University Council shall set the rules governing academic procedures, including registration and add/drop of courses within the approved study plan, in a manner that ensures students register for the minimum academic load.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

Rules governing student progression according to the study plan:

1. The Deanship of Admission and Registration shall implement the rules governing student progression in the study plan as follows:

A. The minimum academic load for a student is twelve (12) credit units in a semester and one (1) credit unit in the summer semester.

B. The maximum academic load for a student is eighteen (18) credit units in a semester and ten (10) credit units in the summer semester, provided that the registration aligns with the student’s cumulative GPA. The Permanent Committee for Curricula and Study Plans may increase the maximum limit when necessary.

C. A student who follows the study plan strictly shall register all courses of that level regardless of the maximum load or cumulative GPA.

2. The academic load for a student is calculated based on their cumulative GPA as follows:

A. From 1.00 to 1.99 → academic load: 12 credit units.
B. From 2.00 to 3.74 → academic load: 15 credit units.
C. From 3.75 to 5.00 → academic load: 18 credit units.

3. The Deanship of Admission and Registration may, after college approval, increase the maximum load for a student expected to graduate in that semester to no more than twenty-one (21) credit units, and no more than twelve (12) in the summer semester.
4. The Deanship of Admission and Registration may, based on a college recommendation, increase the academic load for exceptional cases by no more than three (3) credit units, provided that the maximum load does not exceed eighteen (18) credit units.
5. The college council or its delegate may approve alternative courses if the planned courses are not offered, provided the substitutes are equivalent to the courses in the student’s study plan.
6. The University Council shall determine the possibility of academic acceleration for outstanding students based on what is submitted by the Permanent Committee for Curricula and Study Plans.

Article Fourteen

The student shall attend the course sessions either face-to-face or virtually according to the modes of learning specified in the study plan. The student shall be denied entry to the final examination if their attendance falls below the percentage determined by the University Council. A student who is denied entry due to absence shall be considered failing the course and shall receive the grade “Denied” (DN).

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The student must attend course sessions, whether face-to-face or virtual, for all course activities as specified in the study plan. The student shall be denied entry to the final examination if unexcused absences exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of total contact hours.
2. A student denied entry due to absence is considered failing the course and shall receive grade (DN).
3. The course instructor is responsible for recording absences in the electronic system and is liable for compliance.
4. Lists of denied students shall be approved by the college offering the course.
5. Courses delivered in different learning modes shall follow the absence rules determined by the University Council.

Article Fifteen

The college or institute council, or its delegate, may lift the denial and allow the student to take the final examination if the student submits an acceptable excuse. The University Council shall determine the minimum required attendance percentage for eligibility to take the examination.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The college council may specify acceptable excuses and the process for approving them.
2. The college offering the course, or its delegate, may lift the denial provided the student submits an acceptable excuse and the attendance percentage is not less than fifty percent (50%) of total contact hours for the course, whether face-to-face or virtual or according to the approved mode of delivery in the course specification.

Article Sixteen

A student may request to withdraw from studying a level, a semester, or a full academic year without being considered failing if they submit an acceptable excuse to the entity designated by the University Council. The withdrawn period shall count within the maximum time allowed for completing graduation requirements. The executive rules shall define the specific procedures and conditions.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

The student may withdraw from a semester or full academic year and shall receive grade (W). The withdrawn period shall count toward the maximum duration allowed for graduation, according to the following:

1. For a semester-based program:

A. The request must be submitted at least three (3) weeks before the start of final exams.
B. Withdrawal shall not exceed two (2) consecutive semesters or three (3) non-consecutive semesters during the entire university period including deferments.

2. For an annual-based program:

A. The student may withdraw from a full academic year, and results of completed courses shall be recorded if approved by the college.
B. Withdrawal is allowed only once, unless exempted in extreme necessity by the Academic Affairs Committee based on a recommendation from the college.
C. Requests shall be executed within one (1) week of submission unless exempted in extreme necessity.
D. The student may retract the request within one (1) week of approval.
E. In extreme necessity, the University Council may exempt the student from certain conditions, provided completed courses remain recorded and incomplete ones receive grade (W).

Article Seventeen

A student may withdraw from one or more courses. The executive rules shall define the related procedures and conditions.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

A student may withdraw from one or more courses and shall receive grade (W) without being considered failing, as follows:

1. For a semester-based program
   Withdraw from a maximum of three (3) courses per semester, provided at least one (1) enrolled course remains. Submission must occur at least three (3) weeks before final exams.
2. For an annual-based program
   Withdraw from up to three (3) courses per academic year before the start of the course final exam period.
3. Withdrawal requests shall be processed within one (1) week of submission. Retraction is allowed within one (1) week of approval.
4. In extreme necessity, the Academic Affairs Committee may grant exceptions. Course grade shall be (W).

Article Eighteen

A student may request to defer study for a level, a semester, or a full academic year due to an excuse accepted by the entity designated by the University Council. The executive rules shall specify conditions and procedures.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The student may submit a request electronically before the first week of classes and before the student stipend approval period. Deferment may not exceed two (2) consecutive semesters or three (3) non-consecutive semesters total. For annual programs: one (1) academic year maximum.
2. Requests processed within one (1) week. Retraction allowed within one (1) week. In extreme necessity, exceptions may be granted, and the deferment period is not counted toward maximum graduation duration.
3. A female student accompanying her sponsored husband (or guardian), or a male student accompanying his sponsored wife may suspend enrollment for up to five (5) years. Upon return:
   A. If study plans changed, equivalent courses are transferred.
   B. If unchanged, the student resumes previous standing.
   C. After five (5) years, the seat is reserved and the student is treated as a new student.
4. The student must register once the deferment ends or will be considered discontinued.
5. The student is responsible for submitting the deferment request through the portal and confirming approval.

Article Nineteen

A student’s enrollment shall be terminated if they discontinue study for a period determined by the University Council without submitting a deferment or withdrawal request. A student whose enrollment is terminated may request reinstatement using their previous ID and academic record. The executive rules shall outline the conditions.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. If a regular student does not register any courses in a semester (or year for annual programs) and is neither deferred nor withdrawn, their enrollment shall be terminated. The discontinued term is not counted in the maximum graduation duration.
2. If the student does not correct their registration status within the first four (4) weeks, enrollment shall be terminated.
3. Reinstatement conditions:

A. Submit request within four (4) semesters (or two years for annual programs).
B. Approval by college council or delegate.
C. After four (4) semesters (or two years annual), the student may only apply as a new applicant subject to current admission conditions. Exceptions allowed in extreme necessity.
D. Reinstatement allowed only once. Exceptions may be granted in extreme necessity.

Article Twenty

A student dismissed for disciplinary reasons may not be reinstated until after three (3) years from the dismissal date. The executive rules shall specify the related conditions.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

Reinstatement after disciplinary dismissal requires:

1. Recommendation from both the department and college councils confirming the student no longer violates the relevant conduct.
2. Approval by the college council or its delegate.

Article Twenty-One

A student who officially withdraws from the university may request reinstatement using their previous ID and academic record if they provide an acceptable excuse approved by the designated entity. Executive rules define procedures.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

The withdrawn semester counts in the student’s program duration. Reinstatement requests follow the same rules stated in Article Nineteen.

Article Twenty-Two

The student shall be dismissed from the university in the following cases:

1. Receiving three (3) consecutive academic warnings due to low cumulative GPA as per Articles 41 and 42. The University Council may grant an additional chance to improve the GPA.
2. Failure to complete graduation requirements within a maximum of one-and-a-half times the standard program duration.

The University Council may grant an exceptional chance not exceeding one (1) academic year in extreme necessity.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. Academic dismissal cases:

A. Three consecutive warnings due to low GPA.
B. Failure to complete graduation within maximum allowed time. The University Council may give exceptional approval as follows:

2. A student dismissed due to warnings may receive a fourth chance if enrolling in twelve (12) credit units allows reaching the required GPA.
3. A student dismissed due to exceeding duration may receive up to two (2) semesters, provided remaining courses do not require more.

Chapter Six: Transfer and Equivalency

Article Twenty-Three

A student may be accepted for transfer from outside the university under the following conditions:

1. The student must have studied at a local university or college, or at a foreign university, college, or educational institution licensed by the competent authority in the country of study.
2. The student must not have been dismissed from the transferring institution for disciplinary reasons.

3. Any other conditions set by the University Council.

    

Executive Rule of Jouf University

A student may be accepted for transfer from outside the university under the following conditions:

1. The student must have studied at a local university or college, or at a foreign university, college, or educational institution licensed by the competent authority in the country of study.
2. The student must not have been dismissed from the transferring institution for disciplinary reasons.
3. The student must meet the external-transfer conditions approved by the council of the college to which the student seeks transfer.
4. Approval by the Deanship of Admission and Registration according to the transfer regulations approved by the University Council.

Article Twenty-Four

The college or institute council may grant equivalency for a course or a set of courses previously studied outside the university, based on recommendations from the councils of the departments offering those courses, provided that the course syllabi are similar or equivalent. The equivalent courses shall be recorded in the student’s academic record. The University Council shall set the governing rules, including the possibility of counting them toward the student’s cumulative GPA.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. Courses previously completed at another university may be granted equivalency. The council of the college offering the course shall decide on equivalency based on recommendations from the relevant department councils, subject to:
2. The maximum proportion of credit units that may be counted from outside the university is forty percent (40%) of the total graduation units required by Jouf University.
3. No more than two (2) years may have elapsed since the student passed the course. The Permanent Committee for Academic Affairs for male and female students may grant exceptions.
4. The student’s grade in any course to be equated must be at least “Good.” The college council may require a higher minimum.
5. The college offering the course must complete equivalency procedures within the semester in which the student transfers.
6. The academic record shall show the data of all equivalent courses, including the grades obtained in each course, without inclusion in the cumulative GPA. The Permanent Committee for Academic Affairs may exempt this rule if the student studied at the university before being admitted as a transfer student.

A. Study must have been at a local university or college, or at a foreign university, college, or educational institution licensed by the competent authority in the country of study.
B. The completed course must be similar or equivalent in content, and its credit units must not be fewer than those of the corresponding course at Jouf University.

Article Twenty-Five

A student may transfer from one college to another within the university, from one department to another within a college, and from one major to another within a department, according to regulations approved by the University Council or its delegate.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

The University Council, or its delegate, shall approve the conditions and regulations for transfer between colleges within the university, between departments within a college, and between majors within a department, based on recommendations from the colleges’ councils, taking into account:

1. The rules for transfer between tracks and colleges approved by the University President, or delegate, based on proposals from the Deanship of Admission and Registration.
2. The number of intra-university transfers shall not exceed one (1) time during the student’s academic career. The Permanent Committee for Academic Affairs may grant exceptions.

Article Twenty-Six

Courses previously completed by a student who transfers between colleges within the university, between departments within a college, or between majors within a department, and which have been granted equivalency, shall be recorded and counted in the academic record according to regulations set by the University Council.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

A. The council of the college offering the course, or its delegate, is responsible for approving the equivalency of courses completed by a student transferring between colleges within Jouf University, based on recommendations from the relevant departments. The completed course must be similar or equivalent in content, and its credit units must not be fewer than those of the corresponding course.

B. All courses previously completed at the same academic level by a student transferring within Jouf University—between colleges or between departments—shall be recorded and counted in the student’s academic record, including the grades obtained. All such courses taken at the university shall be included in the cumulative GPA.

Article Twenty-Seven

The University Council shall set the conditions for exempting a student from studying a course or a group of courses, up to a maximum of twenty-five percent (25%) of the total credit units of the study plan. The exempted courses shall be recorded with the grade “Exempted” (E).

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. A student may be exempted from studying a course or a group of courses up to a maximum of 25% of the total credit units of the study plan, according to regulations approved by the University Council based on submissions from colleges’ councils.
2. The University Council shall specify the detailed procedures for assessment and exemption.

Chapter Seven: Visiting Students and Student Exchange

Article Twenty-Eight

A student may, with the approval of their college, study one or more courses at another university inside or outside the Kingdom, or at a branch of their home university, without transferring. The study may be concurrent with their studies at their home university or as a visiting student. The completed courses may be equated and recorded in the student’s academic record. The University Council shall determine the regulations governing this, including the possibility of counting such courses toward the cumulative GPA.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. A student of Jouf University may study as a visiting student at a university inside or outside the Kingdom among those classified by the Ministry of Education, without transferring, under the following conditions:

A. The student’s college must approve after ensuring the course to be studied outside the university or at a branch is equivalent in content and that its credit units are not fewer than the units required for graduation. The student shall be referred through an official letter from the Deanship of Admission and Registration.

B. A visiting student in a branch of Jouf University shall be treated according to Article 26 of these regulations.

C. The grades of courses equated for a visiting student from another institution shall not be counted in the cumulative GPA, but the courses shall be recorded in the academic record.

D. The student must have studied as a regular student at their college for at least two (2) semesters before requesting visiting study at another university.

E. In accordance with item (1.c) of the executive rule of Article 24, the maximum percentage of credit units that may be counted from outside the university is twenty percent (20%) of the total graduation units required at Jouf University.

F. The student’s grade in any course to be equated must be at least “Good.”

G. The student must submit their obtained results to the Deanship of Admission and Registration within two (2) weeks from the beginning of the first semester following the visiting period. Failure to do so will result in being considered discontinued for that semester, except summer semesters, and treated according to Article 19.

H. The monthly stipend shall be paid to the visiting student if eligible after submitting results for the semester studied to the Deanship of Admission and Registration.

2. A student of Jouf University may study concurrently or as a visiting student at one of the branches of Jouf University only, under the following conditions:

A. The student’s college must approve after ensuring the course to be studied at the branch is equivalent in content and that its credit units are not fewer than the units required for graduation.
B. The maximum percentage of credit units that may be studied concurrently at Jouf University branches is twenty percent (20%) of the total graduation units required at Jouf University.

3. A student from another university or college may study as a visiting student at Jouf University or one of its branches under the following conditions:

A. The student must submit approval from the Deanship of Admission and Registration (or its equivalent) at their home institution to study as a visiting student at Jouf University, and must submit an official request to the Deanship of Admission and Registration at Jouf University including the courses intended to be studied.
B. The student must be a regular student at their home institution.
C. The student shall be registered in courses according to the regulations and registration periods applicable at Jouf University.
D. The visiting student shall not receive a monthly stipend from Jouf University.

Chapter Eight: Examinations

Article Twenty-Nine

1. The University Council shall determine, based on the recommendation of the college council or institute and upon the proposal of the department council offering the course, the method of calculating coursework grades, final examinations, and evaluation methods according to the nature of the course.
2. The final examination for a course shall be conducted once. The University Council may, based on the recommendation of the college council and upon the proposal of the relevant department council, approve exceptions according to the nature of the course.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The University Council shall determine, based on the recommendation of the college council and upon the proposal of the department council, the mechanism for calculating the coursework grade, provided that the coursework grade is not less than 50% and does not exceed 60% of the final grade, except for courses of a special nature.
2. Coursework and final examinations shall be assessed according to the approved course specification and the Student Learning Assessment Policy at Jouf University, as approved by the University Council.
3. The course coordinator shall adhere to the approved course specification according to the Education and Training Evaluation Commission template, including teaching strategies and learning outcomes assessment methods.
4. The course instructor shall announce the distribution of coursework grades and the schedule of midterm assessments at the beginning of each semester.
5. The course instructor shall allow students to review their graded midterm exam papers after results are announced and compare them to the model answer.
6. The course instructor must announce midterm exam results within two (2) weeks from the exam date, and announce detailed coursework grades before the final examination period begins.
7. A student has the right to appeal a midterm exam grade within one (1) week of reviewing their paper. The appeal is submitted to the course instructor. If unsatisfied with the response, the student may escalate the appeal to the department chair or the associate dean if the department chair is the course instructor. The department chair may involve other faculty members in reassessment. The decision shall be final and issued within one (1) week of submitting the appeal.
8. The college council shall determine the duration of the final examination, not exceeding three (3) hours.
9. The final examination is held once. Exceptions may be approved by the University Council based on the recommendation of the college council and proposal of the department council.

Article Thirty

The college or institute council shall organize final examination procedures to ensure proper conduct of the academic process. Final exam grades and final course grades must be recorded within a period defined by the executive rules.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

The college council shall approve mechanisms for organizing final examinations according to the following:

1. Final examinations must be held during the period specified by the approved academic calendar.
2. The college must administer finals at the times registered for each course.
3. The course coordinator prepares the final exam questions and model answer. When necessary, and based on the department council recommendation and college council approval, another qualified faculty member may prepare them. A copy of the exam and model answer must be submitted to the department chair at least two (2) days prior to the exam.
4. Unified final exam questions must be used across all sections of the same course, prepared collectively by the course instructors.
5. Students are not allowed to enter the exam after 30 minutes from the start. Students are not allowed to leave before half of the allotted exam duration has passed.
6. The course instructor must be present during the exam of their course.
7. If the final examination cannot be held due to force majeure, the department chair shall set an alternative date approved by the college dean or delegate. A student shall not sit for more than two (2) exams per day, unless exempted by the college council.
8. The course instructor, or assigned faculty member, records grades in the electronic system and the department chair approves them within seventy-two (72) hours from the exam time.

Article Thirty-One

A student absent from the final examination shall receive a zero for the exam and their final grade in the course shall be based on the coursework grades obtained.

Article Thirty-Two

If a student is unable to take the final exam due to an acceptable excuse, the college council may approve the excuse and allow a make-up exam, provided it is scheduled no later than the end of the following level, semester, or academic year (for annual-system colleges). The obtained grade shall be recorded. Failure to take the make-up exam shall result in a failing grade (F).

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The student may submit a request to the college council for a make-up exam within two (2) weeks of the original exam date if a compelling excuse prevented attendance.
2. The college council may approve the excuse and allow a make-up exam within the following semester. The student shall receive the coursework grade and the obtained make-up exam grade.
3. If the course instructor is unavailable, the department chair shall assign another faculty member to prepare and grade the make-up exam.

Article Thirty-Three

The department council offering the course may allow a student to complete course requirements in the following level, semester, or academic year (for annual-system colleges). An “Incomplete” grade (IC) shall be recorded, not counted toward GPA unless requirements are completed within the stated period. After the period expires without completion, the “Incomplete” grade shall be converted to a failing grade (F), and counted in the GPA.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The department council may allow the student to complete course requirements in the next semester without re-registration. The grade “IC” is recorded and remains excluded from the GPA until replaced with the final obtained grade.
2. If one (1) semester passes and requirements are not completed, and the student is neither withdrawn nor deferred, the “IC” grade shall be converted to a failing grade (F), and counted in the GPA.
3. If the course instructor is unavailable, the department chair shall assign a faculty member to supervise completion of course requirements.

Article Thirty-Four

If the completion of research-based courses requires more than one semester, an “In-Progress” grade (IP) shall be recorded. Upon completion, the student shall receive the earned grade. If not completed on time, the department council may approve recording an “Incomplete” grade (IC).

Executive Rule of Jouf University

If research-based coursework requires more than one semester, an “IP” grade shall be recorded. Upon completion, the student shall receive the earned grade. If not completed on time, the department council may approve recording an “IC” grade, which shall be treated according to Article Thirty-Three and its executive rule.

Article Thirty-Five

The University Council may, based on the recommendation of the college council (for annual-system colleges), determine the number of failed credit units for which a second-round final examination may be administered.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. A second-round exam shall be administered at least two (2) weeks before the academic year begins for annual-system colleges. Students failing specific courses may sit for these exams under approved rules. The student shall receive the grade “D” instead of the previous failing grade (F) if passing.
2. A student who fails the second-round exam or courses without a second-round option shall repeat those courses. The college council or its delegate may allow the student to study courses from the following year.
3. The University Council or its delegate may determine the number of failed credit units eligible for a second-round exam and set appropriate rules ensuring compliance with these regulations.

Article Thirty-Six

A student may appeal the final course grade within fifteen (15) days from result approval. The executive rules shall specify the appeal procedures.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. A student may appeal final exam results under the following rules:

A. The appeal must be submitted within fifteen (15) days of the grade announcement to the department offering the course.
B. The department chair requests a faculty statement. If a mistake is found, the grade is corrected via an approved amendment form. If correction is confirmed accurate, the student reviews the graded paper and model answer. If satisfied, the student signs a waiver and the request is filed within five (5) business days.
C. If the student disputes the correction, the department chair forms a committee of two (2) faculty members not including the course instructor. The committee re-evaluates the paper and submits its recommendation within ten (10) business days. The department chair’s decision shall be final, and the student shall be notified.
D. If the department chair is the course instructor, the associate dean shall handle procedures.
E. If the student disputes the decision, they may appeal to the college council within ten (10) business days, submitting the justification. The appeal shall be reviewed in the next session.
F. If the college council rejects the appeal, a justified decision is issued. If approved, a committee of three (3) faculty members excluding the instructor re-evaluates the paper. Recommendations must be submitted within ten (10) business days and the council’s decision shall be final.

2. A student may request regrading of the final exam under the following rules:

A. The request must be submitted during the official period announced in the academic calendar by the Deanship of Admission and Registration.
B. The request must be submitted electronically through the student portal.
C. The college offering the course shall decide on regrading requests no later than the first (1st) week of the following semester.

Chapter Nine: Grades

Article Thirty-Seven

The overall grade classification of the student’s cumulative GPA upon graduation shall be based on the following:

• Excellent: if the cumulative GPA is not less than 4.50 out of 5.00, or 3.50 out of 4.00.
• Very Good: if the cumulative GPA is from 3.75 to less than 4.50 out of 5.00, or from 2.75 to less than 3.50 out of 4.00.
• Good: if the cumulative GPA is from 2.75 to less than 3.75 out of 5.00, or from 1.75 to less than 2.75 out of 4.00.
• Pass: if the cumulative GPA is from 2.00 to less than 2.75 out of 5.00, or from 1.00 to less than 1.75 out of 4.00.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

The overall grade classification upon graduation shall be based on the student’s cumulative GPA, provided that the GPA is not lower than the minimum required by the University Council for each specialization, and in all cases not less than “Pass.” The grade classifications are as follows:

• Excellent: cumulative GPA not less than 4.50 out of 5.00.
• Very Good: cumulative GPA from 3.75 to less than 4.50.
• Good: cumulative GPA from 2.75 to less than 3.75.
• Pass: cumulative GPA from 2.00 to less than 2.75.

Article Thirty-Eight

Grades obtained by the student in each course shall be calculated according to Annex (1) of these regulations.

Article Thirty-Nine

Honor Degrees

1. First Honor Degree is awarded to a student who obtains a cumulative GPA from (4.75) to (5.00) out of (5.00), or from (3.75) to (4.00) out of (4.00) upon graduation.
   Second Honor Degree is awarded to a student who obtains a cumulative GPA from (4.25) to less than (4.75) out of (5.00), or from (3.25) to less than (3.75) out of (4.00) upon graduation.
2. To receive First or Second Honor Degree, the following conditions must be met:

A. The student must not have failed any course studied at the university or any other university (including visiting or transferred students).
B. The student must have completed graduation requirements within a maximum duration equal to the average between the minimum and maximum allowed period of study in their college or institute.
C. The student must have studied at least sixty percent (60%) of graduation requirements at the university from which they will graduate.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

The First Honor Degree is awarded to a student with a cumulative GPA from (4.75) to (5.00) upon graduation, and the Second Honor Degree is awarded to a student with a cumulative GPA from (4.25) to less than (4.75) upon graduation.

Conditions:

A. The student must not have failed any course studied at the university or any other university.
B. The student must complete graduation requirements within a maximum duration equal to the average between the minimum and maximum study periods in their college. Periods studied outside the major are not counted.
C. The student must have completed at least sixty percent (60%) of graduation requirements at Jouf University.

Article Forty

The University Council may adopt a different grading system after approval by the Universities Affairs Council.

Chapter Ten: The Graduate and Learning Outcomes

Article Forty-One

A student shall graduate after successfully completing all graduation requirements according to the study system and the study plan approved by the University Council, provided that the cumulative GPA is not lower than the minimum required by the University Council for each specialization, and in all cases not lower than “Pass.”

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. A student shall graduate after completing all program requirements successfully, with a cumulative GPA not less than “Pass” (2.00 out of 5.00).
2. The University Council shall grant academic degrees to students based on the graduation memorandum submitted by the Deanship of Admission and Registration. Individual memorandums shall be submitted subsequently for students who complete their graduation requirements. The last academic semester recorded in the student’s academic record shall be considered the graduation semester.
3. The Deanship of Admission and Registration is responsible for issuing graduation certificates.

Article Forty-Two

The college council may, based on the recommendation of the relevant department council, determine appropriate courses for a student to study in order to raise their cumulative GPA, in cases where the student passed the required courses but failed to achieve the minimum cumulative GPA.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The student’s college council may, based on the recommendation of the relevant department council, determine appropriate courses to be studied in order to meet the minimum required cumulative GPA for graduation if the student has passed all required courses but failed to meet the GPA requirement.
2. The higher grade of a repeated course shall be counted in the student’s cumulative GPA, and the lower grade shall be converted to “Pass without Grade” (NP) and shall not be counted in the cumulative GPA.
3. If the student fails a repeated course, the grade “Fail without Grade” (NF) shall be recorded and shall not be counted in the cumulative GPA.

Article Forty-Three

The university shall commit to applying practices that ensure the quality of teaching and learning.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The competent authority (Vice Presidency for Educational Affairs) shall develop a system to monitor the quality of educational processes in academic programs.
2. Academic departments must apply the system in planning, implementation, assessment, and improvement of academic programs.
3. The competent authority (Deanship of Quality and Academic Accreditation) shall review academic program specifications to ensure compliance with the Education and Training Evaluation Commission templates and the application of quality and accreditation standards.

Article Forty-Four

The university shall work on enhancing students’ skills and competencies prior to graduation to ensure their excellence and competitiveness in the labor market.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. The college council shall implement the necessary regulations and procedures to ensure raising the level of student skills and competencies before graduation, according to the nature of the programs in the college.
2. Colleges, in coordination with the relevant university entities responsible for student training, shall collaborate with distinguished training providers to develop student skills and competencies, issue professional certificates, provide professional competency test preparation, and offer sufficient hands-on training before graduation.

Chapter Eleven: General Provisions

Article Forty-Five

The University Council may amend the duration specified in Article One of these Regulations for the semester, summer semester, study level, summer level, and full academic year, after approval issued by the Universities Affairs Council or its delegate.

Article Forty-Six

Without prejudice to the provisions of these Regulations and the admission conditions of the University, the University may admit applicants whose high school certificate (or equivalent) is more than five (5) years old if there are valid reasons. Such admission may also be subject to a financial fee in accordance with the regulations set by the Universities Affairs Council.

Article Forty-Seven

Subject to the decisions issued by the Universities Affairs Council, the University Council may, based on the proposal of the college council, approve a joint academic program between the University and an accredited educational institution outside the Kingdom, provided it is licensed by the competent authority in the country of study and accredited by one of the international programmatic accreditation bodies recognized by the Education and Training Evaluation Commission. The University Council shall establish the rules and procedures governing such programs.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. College councils may propose joint academic programs with educational institutions outside the Kingdom in accordance with the governing regulations.
2. The Legal Affairs Department shall review contracts, rules, and procedures related to implementing joint academic programs to ensure legal compliance.
3. The University Council shall approve joint programs based on recommendations from college councils, while observing relevant decisions issued by the Universities Affairs Council.

Article Forty-Eight

The University Council shall set rules, controls, and procedures for attracting gifted, distinguished, talented, and innovative students in their fields.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

The Deanship of Admission and Registration shall implement a program to attract gifted, distinguished, talented, and innovative students in coordination with relevant entities within and outside the University and submit it to the University Council.

Article Forty-Nine

Subject to the decisions issued by the competent authorities, the University may allow high school students to enroll in or attend certain general university courses under conditions and regulations set by the University Council.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

1. High school students may attend selected general university courses.
2. The application shall be submitted to the Deanship of Admission and Registration.
3. At the end of the semester, a certificate of attendance shall be issued to the student.
4. The University is not obligated to admit the student after completing high school.
5. The University is not obligated to grant equivalency for completed courses if the student is later admitted to the University.

Article Fifty

Subject to relevant laws, regulations, and decisions, each University Council shall approve the student conduct and disciplinary regulations on campus.

Executive Rule of Jouf University

The Deanship of Student Affairs shall formulate and publish student conduct and disciplinary regulations after presentation to and approval by the University Council.

Article Fifty-One

Each University Council shall approve the executive rules for implementing these Regulations.

Article Fifty-Two

The Universities Affairs Council shall interpret these Regulations.

Article Fifty-Three

These Regulations shall supersede the Study and Examination Regulations for the Undergraduate Level amended by Higher Education Council Resolution No. (13/27/1423) dated 2/11/1423 AH, and shall annul any provisions conflicting with them.

Article Fifty-Four

These Regulations shall be enforced starting from the beginning of the academic year 1445 AH.

Annex (1): Grade Calculation Table