PASS EXAMINATION. At the University of Cambridge, Eng., an examination which is required for the B.A. degree. Of these examinations there are three during a student's undergraduateship.
Even the examinations which are disparagingly known as "pass" ones, the Previous, the Poll, and (since the new regulations) the Junior Optime, require more than half marks on their papers.—Bristed's Five Years in an Eng. Univ., Ed. 2d, p. 319.
PASSMAN. At Oxford, one who merely passes his examination, and obtains testimonials for a degree, but is not able to obtain any honors or distinctions. Opposed to CLASSMAN, q.v.
"Have the passmen done their paper work yet?" asked Whitbread. "However, the schools, I dare say, will not be open to the classmen till Monday."—Collegian's Guide, p. 309.
PATRON. At some of the Colleges in the United States, the patron is appointed to take charge of the funds, and to regulate the expenses, of students who reside at a distance. Formerly, students who came within this provision were obliged to conform to the laws in reference to the patron; it is now left optional.
P.D. An abbreviation of Philosophiæ Doctor, Doctor of
Philosophy. "In the German universities," says Brande, "the title
'Doctor Philosophiæ' has long been substituted for Baccalaureus
Artium or Literarium."
PEACH. To inform against; to communicate facts by way of accusation.
It being rather advisable to enter college before twelve, or to stay out all night, bribing the bed-maker next morning not to peach.—Alma Mater, Vol. I. p. 190.
When, by a little spying, I can reach
The height of my ambition, I must peach.
The Gallinipper, Dec. 1849.
PEMBROKER. At the University of Cambridge, Eng., a member of
Pembroke College.