THE FORUM: New drop policy clarified
Editor’s note: The Forum is the students’ chance to have questions answered by USU administration, faculty and staff members. Questions can be sent to editor@statesman.usu.edu.
The question:
USU is changing many of its policies and procedures. I think the new drop policy is confusing. What do I need to know?
The response:
In the Registrar’s Office, we believe in the educational process and celebrate the educational achievements of students. Part of our role as “educators” is to assist students in understanding the policies and procedures on campus. A good example of this is the new Dropping Courses policy (page 17, General Catalog).
The new drop policy was initiated by ASUSU in 2000. After being reviewed several times, the policy was passed by ASUSU and the Faculty Senate and signed by the president. It represents collaboration between students and faculty.
Every student should review the policy. If you have questions, you may contact the Registrar’s Office or your adviser for clarification. Ignorance is not an excuse.
Students and faculty determined that all registration (adding and dropping) should be completed by 20 percent of the term. Students have three weeks to make adjustments to their schedule without limit or consequences. After 20 percent and until 60 percent (Oct. 24 for fall), students can still drop via the QUAD. The consequences are that there is no refund to the classes being dropped (even if you get permission to add a different one late); and a “W” will appear on the transcript. This “W” cannot be appealed. It is non-punitive which means it does not count toward your GPA.
After 60 percent and until 75 percent (Nov. 11 for fall) students must complete a Late Drop form to drop courses. This form is available at the Registrar’s Office and also at http://www.usu.edu/registrar/forms/index.html. The instructor’s and adviser’s signatures are required. The transcript will reflect a “W” with a grade (defaulted to F) as assigned by the instructor. There is no exception or appeal to the transcript notation. Students cannot drop courses after 75 percent.
Students should check the QUAD frequently (especially before the 15th day of classes) to see if their schedule is correct and all balances have been paid. Too often, students are negligent in this and the result is they must pay the consequences of having the wrong schedule. Although advisers and faculty are here to guide you through the process, ultimately this is YOUR education and YOU are the one who must be accountable. It would be a disservice to teach students that consequences can be avoided. We want you prepared for the realities of life and the reality is that standards and policies are set and consequences follow each action.
In the Registrar’s Office, we are happy to associate with so many bright, ambitious, and responsible students. We are impressed with the quality of USU’s students. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your educational process.
Heidi Jo Beck is the associate registrar. Comments can be sent to her at heidi@cc.usu.edu