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Major change in course withdrawal takes effect

by Thom Myers

June 15, 2011 | WMU News

Photo of WMU Ombuds Kathy Mitchell.
University Ombuds
Kathy Mitchell
KALAMAZOO--Beginning with the current summer session at Western Michigan University, students wanting to withdraw from a course have only two options: student-initiated withdrawal within a specific time period at the beginning of a session or semester; and thereafter, Hardship Panel-approved withdrawal.

A previous option of appealing to an instructor for approval to withdraw is no longer available. Following the period for student-initiated withdrawal, all requests to withdraw must be made to and approved by the Hardship Panel, says University Ombuds Kathy Mitchell.

Students are strongly encouraged to consult with the University Ombuds before initiating a hardship-based withdrawal appeal.

Student-Initiated Withdrawal

A student may withdraw online through GoWMU from one or more courses without academic penalty from the end of open registration until the last date to withdraw listed on the academic calendar for each session. No documentation is required to withdraw, but students are encouraged to consult with instructors, academic advisors and financial aid, if applicable.

Hardship Panel-Approved Withdrawal

Once the last day for student-initiated withdrawal has passed, requests to withdraw must be submitted with documentation to the Hardship Panel, and all decisions of the panel are final. Qualifying as hardships for consideration by the panel are: physical or mental illness; serious injury to the student or a close family member; death of a close family member; an act of violence; and other serious circumstances mostly or wholly beyond the student's control.

Students are strongly encouraged to consult with the University Ombuds before initiating a hardship-based withdrawal appeal. International students also are encouraged to consult with staff in the Office of International Admissions and Services.

More details and examples are available on the Registrar's Office website at wmich.edu/registrar/records/withdraw.

If you have questions, contact Kathy Mitchell or Eric McConnell in the ombuds office at kathy.mitchell@wmich.edu or eric.mcconnell@wmich.edu or (269) 387-0718.