Student Withdrawal Process

Thinking about withdrawing? Know your options

We know life can be unpredictable, and there may be times when students need to withdraw from a course or from the university. We're here to help! Our team is here to help you understand your options, explain the potential impacts, and connect you with the right services so you can make the best decision for your situation.

What is a withdrawal?

A withdrawal means you are officially dropping one or more courses after the add/drop period. If you're considering withdrawing, it's important to understand your options, the impact on your academic record and financial aid, and who can help you make the best decision.

Important Considerations

Financial Aid: Withdrawing from a course could cause the loss of financial aid for future terms and/or repayment for the current term. In accordance with federal regulations, you may be required to repay a portion of federal or state financial aid received or credited to your account if you withdraw prior to the end of the semester. The Financial Aid Office reviews accounts for Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4) if you do not complete your enrollment period. Withdrawals may also affect your ability to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) required for financial aid and will be reviewed by our Financial Aid Team as well.
Academic Standing: Withdrawals can impact your GPA and academic standing. If you withdraw before the mid-point of a term, you will receive a grade of W, which will not affect your GPA but will still show the course/courses on your transcript. If you withdraw after the mid-point and withdrawal deadline of a term, you will receive a grade of WF, which will count the same as an F in your GPA, and this can negatively affect your academic standing.
Student Accounts: There are no refunds for course withdrawals. We strongly encourage you to check your student account regularly to stay informed about any updates related to your balance, registration holds, or other important notices.

Types of Withdrawals

Limited Course Withdrawal

A limited course withdrawal allows you to withdraw from an individual course without withdrawing from the entire semester.

You may withdraw from a limited number of individual courses.
You can earn up to six (6) W grades during your academic career at UWG.
Your grade of W or WF depends on when you withdraw during the semester, so keep a close eye on The Scoop for important dates and deadlines during each term.
Learn more and view instructions on Limited Course Withdrawals.

Term Withdrawal

A term withdrawal is used when you are withdrawing from all courses for the current semester, but you plan on returning to the University of West Georgia in the future.

Used when withdrawing from all courses for the current term.
You will receive W or WF grades depending on the time of your withdrawal during the semester.
All W grades count toward your maximum of six.
Your student account will remain active for one year from the end of your withdrawal.

Complete (Formal) Withdrawal

A complete withdrawal means you are withdrawing from all your courses and ending your active enrollment at the University of West Georgia for the current term.

Withdrawing from all courses and ending your enrollment at UWG.
You will receive W or WF grades as applicable.
Your student account is marked inactive, and you must apply for readmission if you decide to return.
Complete Withdrawal Form (PDF)

Hardship Withdrawal

A hardship withdrawal is intended for students facing unexpected, significant personal, medical, or psychological challenges that impact their ability to continue with coursework.

Requires documentation and support from UWG Counseling Center or Health Services.
Harship withdrawals do not grant any special refunds and may result in a student owing a balance to UWG if they utilized federal loans to pay for courses they did not remain enrolled in.
Harship Withdrawal Form (PDF)

Not Sure Which Option is Best?

Reach out before you make a final decision! Our staff can help you understand your options, walk through potential outcomes, and connect you to campus resources. Our goal is to ensure you feel fully informed and supported.