Semester Withdrawal Policy

Overview

In order to withdraw from a semester entirely (dropping ALL classes in a given semester), a student must submit a semester withdrawal form.

Student cannot drop down to zero credits in CyberBear.

If a student is only registered for one class, then dropping that class is considered a semester withdrawal, and they must submit a semester withdrawal form.

Semester Withdrawal Deadlines

For precise deadlines regarding withdrawals and refunds, always refer to the Registrar's Office calendar. Call (406) 243-5600 if you have deadline questions.

In general:

  • If a Semester Withdrawal Form is submitted within the first 15 instructional days (or equivalent for summer semesters and shortened part-of-term classes), then there will be no record of registration on the student's transcript, and a refund may be generated dependent upon the specific semester's refund deadlines. For more information, call (406) 243-5600. 
  • If the form is submitted between the 16th instructional day and the last regular class day, W's will be recorded for all registered courses.
  • Students may not withdraw from a semester after the last regular class day.

For complete academic policies, visit the University of Montana Catalog.

Mitigating Circumstances Appeals

Mitigating circumstances are catastrophic, life-altering events beyond a student’s control that prohibit the student from continuing to be enrolled and require their withdrawal on or before the final instructional day of the semester.

Examples of qualifying mitigating circumstances include, but are not limited to:

  • A debilitating illness or injury afflicting the student during the enrollment period;
  • The death of a close family member;
  • Unanticipated active-duty military service, including training. 

Upon submission of a semester withdrawal form, eligible students may file a mitigating circumstances appeal with the Dean of Students to be considered for a partial tuition refund.

Appeals must be submitted within 30 days of the final instructional day of the semester during which the mitigating circumstances occurred. Such an appeal will only be granted to a student one time.

This appeal has no bearing on a student’s financial aid appeal and is not the appropriate venue to resolve or appeal academic matters.

Note: The student MUST withdraw submit a semester withdrawal form prior to the last regular day of classes in order to be considered for a mitigating circumstances appeal.