Drop & Withdraw Policies

It's important to understand the differences between dropping a class and withdrawing from a class, because although they may sound similar, they refer to two very different actions within the academic calendar. Dropping a class typically happens early in the semester and usually means the course won’t appear on your transcript, while withdrawing occurs later and often results in a “W” grade that can impact financial aid or academic progress. By learning the specific deadlines, policies, and potential consequences for each, you can make better decisions that support your academic goals and avoid unintended setbacks.

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When to Drop

To drop is to discontinue enrollment in a course prior to the end of the drop/add period at the beginning of a semester. A dropped course does not appear on the student's academic transcript. Dropping from a class does not influence a student's Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) measurement, but it may impact the amount of financial aid a student earns for the term. An exception request form is necessary if you missed the drop deadline and wish to petition to drop a class rather than withdraw.

How to Drop

When to Withdraw

Withdrawing is to discontinue enrollment in a course or courses after the end of the drop/add period. When withdrawing from one or more, but not all, courses, a student should complete the process on WyoRecords. To withdraw from all courses in a semester, a student should begin the process in the Dean of Students Office. A mark of W will be placed on the student’s academic transcript for each course. Withdrawal from a course or from the university may impact both a student’s current and future receipt of financial aid.  

Withdraw Refund Info

 

Why to Drop or Withdraw

Reasons to drop a class may be due to signing up for more credit hours than you think you can do, a change in interest, or schedule conflicts. The last day to add or drop a course is very soon after the semester start, usually only seven business days. You won't be charged for dropped classes.

Withdrawing from a class places a "W" on the transcript, but this does not affect the GPA. It is better to withdraw from a class than receive a D or F in the class. Withdrawing from a class can be done up until after midterms. However, the cost of the class is the responsibility of the student. The earlier a student withdraws from a course, the lower the cost of the class. Withdrawing from a class may affect the student's full-time status, which can affect scholarships and financial aid, so it is important to ask a financial aid office professional before withdrawing. 

More Information