What Should You Consider Before Dropping a College Course?

The semester is well underway. You're enrolled in the four or five classes, and for the most part things are going well.

Then something happens. You're asked to take on more hours at your part-time job, or health, personal or family issues rear their heads. Or maybe, you've just found yourself in a course where you're struggling. Perhaps the class doesn't interest you and you're finding it hard to concentrate. Maybe the subject matter is one that you find especially difficult. Sometimes, it may not even be difficulty in a particular course that creates problems. You've just bitten off more than you can chew and can't seem to stay on top of all of your classes.

Whatever the reason, you are considering dropping a course. What should you think through in making this decision? What are the possible consequences of removing the class from your schedule? What will happen if you do try to stick it out?

Deadlines, Deadlines, Deadlines

The first thing you'll need to do find out whether you can drop the class. Most colleges and universities allow student to drop selected courses, but only up to a certain point in the semester. Before you go any further, look at your school's registration deadlines or talk to the Registrar's office to find out how long you have to make your decision.

NON-ACADEMIC CONSIDERATIONS

In a perfect world, the only thing you would need to consider as a student is how well you're doing academically. But reality is far from perfect, so you may need to weigh other factors.

Enrollment Verification

Oftentimes, students need to be able to provide a third party with verification that they are enrolled in college. The most common reason for this is health insurance. If your insurance is provided by your parents' coverage plan and you are 18 or over, the provider may ask for proof that you are taking classes. In fact, "taking classes" may not be enough. They may wish to know that you are registered for a full-time course load.