U-M to Hide First-Semester Grades for 2027 Freshmen Amid Student Debate

The University of Michigan announced that, from fall 2027, first-year students in the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts will receive pass/no-credit designations for their initial semester, with letter grades retained only for internal use such as advising and scholarship eligibility. Officials describe the move as a response to a growing mental-health crisis on campuses, hoping to allow students to focus on learning rather than grades.

Proponents among the student body cite reduced anxiety and greater freedom to take challenging electives. Critics contend the policy could foster poor study habits, argue that grades are essential for developing work ethic, and fear stress will simply shift to later semesters. The university notes similar first-year pass/fail systems have long existed at institutions like MIT, Caltech, Wellesley and Swarthmore.