L&S Undergraduate Academic Deans’ Services
College of Letters & Science

Retroactive Drop Request

A RETROACTIVE drop is one that is requested immediately AFTER the last day of instruction for a course (or courses) in a particular term or session.  (If the class(es) you hope drop are still in progress, please use the Late Drop Form Request.)   A retroactive drop request can be used when the class or classes you hope to drop were taken in a previous term.  It is expected that the retroactive drop request be made immediately following the term in question.

A retroactive drop can be approved only in extremely unusual circumstances.  In order to obtain a retroactive drop after the last day of attendance, a student should have verifiable non-academic circumstances beyond their control which prevented them from both dropping the course in a timely manner and from completing the course.

Submitting a retroactive request and providing documentation are not a guarantee that a retroactive drop will be approved.  In particular, earning a poor grade in a course, not being aware of drop policies and deadlines, or not receiving feedback on an examination until after the deadline are a few examples that are not considered valid reasons for obtaining a retroactive drop.

A student MUST first read through the RETROACTIVE DROP information and THEN fill out the information below.  Please note that in order to obtain a retroactive drop, it is important that an individual provide strong documentation of their circumstances.  Extenuating circumstances beyond their control should have occurred and be able to be well documented.

To request a late drop or retroactive drop, you must BOTH:

  • Submit this completed form (see below)
  • Schedule an appointment to meet with an academic dean.  Please call L&S Undergraduate Academic Deans’ Services at 608-262-0617  or send an email to LSDEANS@SAA.LS.WISC.EDU.
  • L&S undergraduate students on F-1 and J-1 visas must obtain permission to drop below full-time status from International Student Services (ISS).  Detailed information on getting permission to drop below full-time can be found at reduced course load.

Examples of documentation that should be provided are as follows:

Death of a family member or friend

  • Obituary or death certificate
  • Letter from counselor
  • Documentation should include date and indicate relationship to the deceased

Family Issues

  • Letter from therapist or counselor

Medical Issues (serious illness, hospitalization, mental health, change in health status)

  • Letter from doctor with advised period of recovery
  • Record of doctor visits
  • Hospitalization records
  • Copies of medical bills documenting illness/injury
  • Letter from doctor, therapist, or counselor

Retroactive Drop Request Form

Name(Required)
Year in School
Are you a Center for Academic Excellence (CAE) student?
If yes, please consult with your CAE academic advisor to get guidance in preparing for your appointment.
Are you an F1/J1 Student Visa Holder?
If yes, please consult with International Student Services to review any effects a retroactive drop may have on your visa status.
Are you a student athlete?
If yes, please contact your advisor in the Athletic Department before you meet with a dean. To find your advisor, see http://advising.wisc.edu/node/91
Are you using any financial aid that may be affected by you obtaining a retroactive drop this class?(Required)
If you are unsure, see "Financial Aid" options in your Student Center.
(e.g. Math 221, Econ 101, Chem 103, etc.)
(For example, fall 2022, summer 2022, etc. Note that requests for a retroactive drop should be made no later than the semester immediately following the affected semester.)
Did you attend the class for the entire term?(Required)
Have you been accused of academic misconduct in the course(s) you wish to retroactively drop?(Required)
(You will have the opportunity to discuss your situation and share supporting documentation in more detail during your individual meeting with a dean.)

L&S Undergraduate Academic Deans' Services will try to contact you within three (3) business days of receiving your request with next steps and to schedule an appointment. Please note that it could take up to 14 business days to process your retroactive drop request.

Drops