The comprehensive exam is graded on a pass-fail basis. The student's identity is kept confidential throughout the grading process, with students identified only by the special numbers assigned specifically for taking comps. We use a multistep process for grading, with a committee of three faculty members.

Students have two attempts to pass the exam. If a student fails the exam on the first attempt, the comprehensive exam may be retaken once at the regularly scheduled time in a future semester or summer session. Students must register for exams in Cardinal Station as usual. Special examinations are not given. Students who take comps during a semester when they are not taking other classes are charged a 1-credit fee.

The department sends written notification to students informing them of their results after the final round of reviews.