What is a W (Withdraw) at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute?

What does a “W” indication mean?

“W” indicates that a student decided not to continue with a course and withdrew from that course sometime during weeks 3 to 10. It is not a negative mark or failing grade; it shows the student made a decision  that was best for their academic journey. 

An indication of “W” on your transcript does not impact your GPA and does not count as a completed course, but it does indicate that the student attempted the course. The class can be taken another time, if so desired or required. 

What does it mean to Withdraw from a course, and what is the difference between dropping and withdrawing? 

• Courses can be added and dropped until the published date(currently, week 2 of each semester). A dropped course will not show on the student’s transcript (ever). 
• After the second week of classes, a student can withdraw from a course. When this happens, the course will remain on your transcript and be designated with a “W” indication. “W” is not a grade. A student can withdraw from a class up to week 10. 
• Be sure to check the Academic Calendar for the exact dates each semester.

When and how to think about a mark of “W”?

A mark of “W” is very common and will not negatively affect your future plans. There is no need to stress about a mark of “W” on a transcript. If a student is feeling overwhelmed because of preparation, workload, etc. withdrawing from a course can be a smart decision. Often, it is better to focus on fewer classes, and perform well, than to struggle with one course that negatively impacts overall performance for the semester. Withdrawing from a course allows a student to reclaim time and energy for other courses or personal commitments.

Remember, prioritizing well-being and academic success is always a good move! Students who have questions or want to discuss options, should not hesitate to reach out to Academic Advising Hubs, ALAC, Class Deans, and Faculty Advisors. RPI supports your success.

Will Withdrawing from a course affect my full-time status?

Withdrawing from a course counts as an attempted credit, meaning it will not drop you below full-time status, and will not negatively affect financial aid. As the course is considered an attempted credit, it will still be calculated in the student’s satisfactory academic progress (SAP).  Contact an academic advisor and the Office of Financial Aid before deciding to withdraw from a course, to ensure that the withdrawal won’t affect course registration for the next semester and/or affect your rate of progress towards your degree.  

What is satisfactory academic progress (SAP)?

Students must maintain satisfactory progress toward degree completion to remain eligible for Federal, State, or RPI funded financial aid. After each term a student’s term GPA, cumulative GPA, and credit hour completion rate or “Pace of Progress” is reviewed. Generally, students must complete 67% or more of their attempted credit hours each term and have a 2.0 or higher cumulative GPA to be considered in Good Standing. Additional per-term GPA requirements also apply.

For more details visit the Office of Financial Aid SAP information page: https://admissions.rpi.edu/aid/sap

Are there situations where a Withdrawal is not recommended?

If you have previously taken a leave of absence, have withdrawn from courses previously, or are on academic probation, it is best to discuss withdrawing from a course with your academic advisor in advance. If you are receiving Federal Aid (Pell grant, Federal loans), the Federal Government requires you to complete 67% of the courses you attempt; W grades will count against this total. Additional considerations include:

• International students: Please contact ISSS to confirm you meet visa requirements,
• Athletes: Please contact the Athletic department to confirm that you will meet NCAA requirements, and
• Students who have earned scholarships: Please make sure earning a W grade will meet scholarship requirements.