Dropping Classes

Consider your options before you drop

If you want to drop a class, you can't just stop attending classes—you'll need to officially drop it. Otherwise, you will receive an F or Incomplete (INC), which counts as 0 in your GPA.

Drop classes before the deadline

• Each term has a Drop and a W (Withdraw) deadline. See the important dates calendar for more information.
• If you drop a class before the drop deadline, the class simply disappears from your record, although there may be financial implications.
• If you drop a class after the drop deadline, but before the W deadline, the class remains on your record with a W.

How to drop a class

• The process for dropping classes is completed through Dal Online. Steps for adding/dropping classes are listed in the Registering for Classes section.

Implications of Dropping

What does Dropping with a "W" Mean?


• 'W' stands for Withdrew after the deadline.
• A class you withdraw from will appear on your transcript with a 'W' instead of a grade.
• A 'W' has no effect on your GPA.
• Having one 'W' on your transcript isn't a bad thing, but having many 'W's on your transcript is not ideal because it could be interpreted as an inability to cope with taking 4-5 courses per term. This matters if you are a full-time student planning to apply for further study, because admission committees can view handling a demanding course load as a strength and an inability to do so a cause for concern.

How it can impact graduation

• If you drop a class, you will need to make up the credit.
• Dropping a class may also affect your graduation date.
  

Financial implications

• Dropping classes may affect your eligibility for a student loan. Make sure you check the rules for your loan.
• If you drop a class by the last day to cancel your registration, you'll receive a full refund.
• If you drop a class after the last day to cancel your registration, you'll only receive a partial refund.
• The amount of the refund decreases as the term progresses. Beyond a certain point each term, there is no refund. Check the refund schedule on the Student Accounts website.
  

If you have a scholarship

• Many scholarships require you to take a minimum number of classes. Ask the Registrar’s Office about your scholarship rules before dropping a class and meet with an Academic Advisor for help in deciding what to do.

Your international student status

• Dropping a class may affect your Student Visa. Before dropping a class, talk to an International Student Advisor.

Your varsity status

• Dropping a class may affect your eligibility to play varsity sports. Ask your coach for information before finalizing your decision.

Are you living in residence?

• Depending on the number of classes dropped, it may affect your eligibility to live in residence. Find out before finalizing your decision.