How to Drop a Class the Right Way

Have you ever started taking a class and thought, “Why did I even sign up for this?”  You aren’t alone.  Many students will start taking a class and decide that it just isn’t for them.  There are many reasons why a student would drop a class, including job conflicts, transportation issues as well as a student’s grade in a class.

There are a few things students should know before dropping a class.  In order to drop a course, a student must fill out the Add/Drop form.  The form must be turned in to the Admissions Office in order to get a receipt stating that the class has indeed been dropped.  It is also important to pay attention to the dates listed on student schedules.  There is a 100-percent-refund date, a 50-percent-refund date and a withdrawal date.  It is best to drop before the class begins in order to switch to another course, but if a student isn’t able to drop at that time, it is best to drop during a refund period.  If a student drops after the 50-percent-

refund date, they are considered to be withdrawing from the course.  They will receive a “W” for that course.

Students aren’t required to notify their instructor that they wish to drop his or her class, but it is recommended.  If a student is dropping because they aren’t receiving the grade they want, they are advised to contact their instructor so that they can do what they can to explain the grade.

Students who have extreme circumstances such as a major surgery that requires months of recovery that occurs after the 50-percent-refund date, there is still a chance for a refund. It is possible to appeal for a refund by filling out an appeal form and turning it in to the Business Office.  The appeal needs to include the proper documentation such as a doctor’s note in order to be considered.

Students receiving Financial Aid should check in with the Financial Aid Office prior to dropping a course.  “Students are required to complete [a certain number of] courses to keep their Financial Aid” said Nancy Partch, Dean of Student Services,  “If they drop at a certain time, they may actually owe money or not receive as much of a refund.”

Bottom line: As soon as a student considers dropping a course, they should get to the Admissions Office as soon as possible.  This is so they can receive the best refund and have little hassle.