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Effective Date: Fall 2025
Last Reviewed: Spring 2025
Last Revised: Fall 2012
Next Review: Fall 2035
Policy Statement
The Graduation Planning System (GPS) is the degree audit tool used by Kent State University to provide a real-time assessment of students’ progress in their declared academic program and is the official record that determines eligibility for graduation. The audit is a direct reflection of the requirements outlined in the University Catalog and is merged with the student’s academic record.
Reason For Policy
In addition to being a tool for students to use to track their progress in their declared program of study, the Graduation Planning System is also the authority for program completion and graduation.
Procedures
There are no procedures associated with this policy.
Forms/Instructions
GPS Audit and Plan can be accessed in the Advising and GPS channel (Student Tools and Courses tab) in FlashLine.
Additional Resources
- Academic Advising (Schedule an Appointment)
- Financial, Billing and Enrollment Center
- Introduction to the GPS Audit and Student Manual
- Manage My Program for Students (Change My Program)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are the requirements listed in my GPS the same as in the catalog?
Yes. The requirements listed on your GPS audit reflect those listed in the University Catalog for your declared catalog year for each program. Your GPS audit, as an extension of the university catalog, is the official contract between you and the university in terms of the requirements you need to complete to earn your program. - How do I find my GPS audit?
You can find your audit by logging into FlashLine and going to the “Student” tab; the GPS Audit and Plan is on the dashboard. It is also listed under “Resources” and then “Advising and GPS.” You also can use the search bar in FlashLine and enter "GPS." - If I think a course should be applying to my program on my audit, but is not, what should I do?
You should meet with your academic advisor and/or program coordinator to discuss any discrepancies you may have. If there is a correction that needs to be made, they will submit the request to update the audit on your behalf. - How current is the information on my audit?
Information in your audit is updated nightly from Kent State's student information system (Banner). To be certain that your audit information is refreshed, you should always click on the "Process" button when you view your audit.
More FAQ can be found on the GPS website.
Definitions
Catalog: A term identifying the catalog that contains the requirements defining a student's academic program. Initially, it is the Catalog in force during the student's first semester at Kent State University.
Catalog in Force: The University Catalog for the current academic year. Example: In fall semester 2024, spring semester 2025 and summer term 2025, the Catalog in force is the 2024-2025 University Catalog.
FlashLine: FlashLine is the web-based portal (entryway) for Kent State students, faculty, staff and alumni. For help with FlashLine, call 330-672-HELP (4357) or visit Tech Help.
GPS Degree Audit: The GPS (Graduation Planning System) degree audit is the official list of degree requirements merged with students' individual academic records to provide a real-time assessment of their progress toward graduation.
Office of the University Registrar: The university office that plans and oversees academic scheduling, academic records, credit transfer, graduation, transcript processing, and system support and compliance reporting.
Related Information
Revision History
Amended August 2025: Revise policy language to reflect the connection of the audit to the catalog year in force and its use for graduation clearance.
Effective August 2012: Established policy for the Graduation Planning System (GPS), which was implemented fall 2010.