What's Happening?
Western Governors University (WGU) has a specific retake policy for its Objective Assessments (OAs), which are proctored exams determining course mastery. The policy is designed to balance student support with academic integrity. If a student fails an OA on
the first attempt, a second attempt usually requires a conversation with their Course Instructor (CI) to review weak areas. For third and fourth attempts, the policy mandates a more formal "Retake Plan," which includes a set of tasks to ensure the student masters the material. These later attempts also incur a retake fee, typically $60 per exam, which is not covered by standard financial aid. The policy generally limits students to a maximum of four attempts per OA, with a fourth failure potentially leading to a change of major or dismissal from the university.
Why It's Important?
WGU's retake policy is crucial for its competency-based education model, which allows students to accelerate through their degrees. The policy ensures that academic standards are maintained while providing pathways for students to succeed even after initial setbacks. The financial aspect of retake fees for third and fourth attempts serves as a strong motivator for students to be thoroughly prepared, impacting their financial planning and study habits. For the university, this policy helps manage resources, maintain the integrity of its degrees, and ensure that graduates have genuinely mastered the required competencies. The structured approach, including mandatory Retake Plans, aims to prevent a cycle of repeated failures and supports student learning by requiring documented evidence of material review.
What's Next?
Students at WGU who fail an Objective Assessment will engage with their Course Instructor to develop a personalized Retake Plan, especially for third and fourth attempts. This plan will outline specific tasks and study requirements to address identified weak areas. Students will need to demonstrate mastery of the material before being approved for subsequent attempts. They will also need to be aware of and budget for the retake fees associated with later attempts. For those struggling with a specific course, early and frequent communication with their Program Mentor and Course Instructor is vital to navigate the policy effectively and avoid reaching the four-attempt limit, which carries significant academic consequences.
Beyond the Headlines
The WGU retake policy highlights a broader tension in higher education between student success initiatives and academic rigor. While competency-based models offer flexibility, they also place a significant onus on students to demonstrate mastery. The policy's structure, with increasing oversight and financial implications for repeated failures, reflects an institutional effort to ensure accountability and genuine learning, rather than simply allowing unlimited attempts. This approach can be seen as a model for how other institutions might balance accessibility with quality, particularly as online and flexible learning options expand. The policy also implicitly addresses the psychological impact of failure, providing structured support while also setting clear boundaries to encourage diligent preparation and self-directed learning.
