A new withdrawal policy enforced at the University of West Georgia declares that students cannot withdraw from more than six classes while obtaining their undergraduate degrees.
Students have the option to drop courses during the Drop/Add period and not have their grades affected. If a student drops a class after this allowed period, they will receive a grade of W, meaning withdrawal passing. Failure to drop classes during the period they can receive a W will cause students to receive WF, or withdraw fail. On student transcripts, however, the W does not affect the GPA, but the WF does. Starting fall 2013, UWG students may only receive a W six times throughout their whole undergraduate career.
Surpassing the six allowed withdrawals can result in students not meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), which is necessary for students to receive their financial aid. The Office of the Registrar advises students to speak with instructors and advisors before deciding to drop a course.
There are, however, exceptions to the withdrawal policy. Any W’s received prior to the Fall 2013 school term, during a summer session, or while a student at attended a different university will be excused. Exceptions also include military, hardships, administrative, and formal withdrawals from the university.
“After the limit of six withdrawals is reached, students are permitted to request exceptions only for circumstances beyond their control.” Once a student has reached his or her six allowed withdrawals, they must present a written appeal to the Dean of their college of study. The Office of the Registrar said that the written request should include a description of the exact nature of the appeal, the reason for the appeal, and supporting documentation, if applicable. “Appeals are not heard unless the student has reached the maximum number of withdrawals allowed.”
UWG students start the semester with open minds about the new policy. Tory Slater, a Junior here at UWG said that the policy does not make him feel any type of way. “If I’m in my major and taking classes for my major then I don’t need to drop the course,” said Slater. “If I’m taking a class and I don’t really need it, then sure, I’ll drop it.”
Senior, Tambria Banks agrees. “I believe that it’s appropriate. Makes people want to graduate and not lollygag around,” said Banks.
Samantha Girvan, also a senior at UWG, opposes. “A lot of people who do withdraw are lazy,” said Girvan. “I’ve heard people say, ‘Oh I didn’t like the class so I withdrew’.” Girvan said withdrawals can have financial obligations. “An issue may arise in one of my courses and I feel like I will not be able to offer the class my full potential by staying enrolled. Unforeseen circumstances present themselves and you’re only option is to withdraw.”
For more information regarding the new withdrawal policy on campus, visit the Office of the Registrar’s homepage or email at registrar@westga.edu.
