A course may be added or dropped after the specified deadline only if the student has an emergency or extenuating circumstances. To add or drop a course after the deadline, the student needs to submit a petition to the Academic Standard Committee. Instructions on how to complete and submit a petition can be obtained through the Center for Academic Success (Prothro Center for Lifelong Learning, Suite 120).

If you are considering a Leave of Absence, Withdrawal from the University, or Not Returning, please make an appointment to speak with a Center for Academic Success staff member.

Leave of Absence

Students in good standing may apply for a student leave of absence by meeting with a staff member in the Center for Academic Success no later than one week prior to the beginning of the semester for which the leave is to begin. A leave of absence may be granted for up to one academic year for a program of work, study, or travel that will contribute significantly to a student’s personal development (or program of study at Southwestern University). In addition, a leave may be granted for personal reasons including, but not limited to, medical, financial, or health. An application for readmission will not be required of students to return from a leave of absence.

Withdrawal

A student may withdraw from the University during a semester by completing a request for withdrawal with a staff member in the Center for Academic Success. Except under unusual circumstances, students may not withdraw from the University after the last day for dropping courses.

Not Return

A student planning to leave the university, whether it be due to transfer or circumstance, will need to make an appointment with a staff member in the Center for Academic Success to complete the necessary paperwork to make their departure from Southwestern University official.