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