Final Exams
Standard & Common Final Exam Schedules
Most courses follow a standard or common final exam schedule. Standard final exams are based on when the course is scheduled to meet. Common final exams are course specific, and the final exam for all sections of a course are given at the same day and time.
- Example for Standard Final Exams
- Courses meet MWF/MW/M/W/F from 8 - 8:45 a.m. → final exam is Saturday, May 13, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
- Example for Common Final Exams
- All sections of BMGT220 → final exam is Saturday, May 13, 4 - 6 p.m.
Review final exam guidelines in the Academic Catalog.
Final Exams for Classes at 6 p.m. and Later
Exams for classes beginning at 6 p.m. and later are given on the same day and at the same time that the class normally meets during the semester. For example, a class that meets Tuesday at 6 p.m. will have its exam on Tuesday of the exam week at 6 p.m.; a class that meets Thursday at 6 p.m. will have its exam on Thursday of the exam week at 6 p.m. Final examinations for classes that meet more than once a week will be held on the exam day corresponding to the first day of the week that the class meets; for example, a class that meets T/Th at 6 p.m. will have its exam on Tuesday of the exam week at 6 p.m. Exams will generally be given in regularly scheduled classrooms. The department will notify faculty of any exceptions.
3+ Examinations on a Single Day
Students may seek to reschedule final examinations so that they have no more than three examinations on any given day. It is the responsibility of the student to initiate the rescheduling or be responsible for taking the examination as originally scheduled. When rescheduling is desired, students should first contact their instructors. Students who encounter difficulty rescheduling examinations with their instructors are advised to contact the dean's office of their academic program for help. Faculty members are expected to accommodate students with legitimate rescheduling requests.
Seat Management Plan
The seat management plan is designed to reserve a portion of seats in general education and a few selected other courses for students with fewer than 60 credits and incoming new students. The seat management plan is only used in the fall and spring semesters. These courses are identified in the Schedule of Classes with a red asterisk next to the section.
Courses on the seat management plan will have the open seats and restrictions updated throughout the early registration period and new student orientation. Students who are adding and dropping courses should review the Schedule of Classes to be aware of the current restriction on a course, which is available in the gray box at the end of the section listing.
When using Registration (Drop/Add), students are notified before they drop a course if that course is on the seat management plan along with the current restriction on that course. Students who are changing sections, should review the FAQ below before processing any changes.
Seat Management Plan FAQs
You will have to drop the course and re-add the course with a different section number. When you select to drop the course, you will be shown a message about the current restriction on the course and required to confirm “Are you sure you want to drop?” As you make a decision, consider the following:
- If there is no restriction and seats are available, you will be able to re-add the course.
- If you meet the restriction and seats are available, you will be able to re-add the course.
- If you meet the restriction and seats are not available, you will be able to go on the hold file.
- If you do not meet the restriction and seats are available, you will not be able to re-add the course and instead will have to select to go on the hold file.
Once you make your decision:
- Select “NO” if you want to keep the current section
- Select “YES” if you want to drop the current section
You should review the Schedule of Classes first to see if there is a restriction and seats available.
- If there is no restriction and seats are available, you will be able to add the course.
- If you meet the restriction and seats are available, you will be able to add the course.
- If you meet the restriction and seats are not available, you will be able to go on the hold file.
- If you do not meet the restriction and seats are available, you will not be able to add the course and instead will have to select to go on the hold file.
Only a small number of general education courses are restricted. Go to the Schedule of Classes and select the "General Education Courses" tab. Choose the category and term you would like to review and then "Show All Sections" to scan for courses that do not have a red asterisk.
Your Academic Advising College has the authority to examine your situation and make an exception if appropriate. Contact your Academic Advising College for further information.
If you do not meet the restrictions for the course, or all available seats are filled, you may place yourself on a hold file for the course. Waitlists are not initially offered for seat managed courses. On the first day of classes, seat management restrictions will end, and those students on the hold file will be eligible for any remaining seats in this course. Those students on the hold file for whom there are not open seats will be placed on a newly created waitlist. Students on the hold file must check-in on the first day of classes, and then daily, to remain on the waitlist. For more information, please see Waitlist & Hold file.
Non-Standard Courses
Non-standard courses do not meet for the standard semester or term dates. These courses are identified in the Schedule of Classes with an explicit start and end date (see example below).
Additionally, non-standard courses have different dates than standard semesters and terms for the Schedule Adjustment Period and Drop Period (also referred to as Drop with "W"). Students are notified with an alert message while registering for a non-standard course and are responsible for being aware of the non-standard course dates and deadlines:
Grading Method
Grading method determines how a course will be reflected on the student’s permanent academic record and counted toward degree progress. Instructors do not have access to view a student’s grading method for a course and are expected to grade students without consideration for grading method.
For each course, the academic department offering the course sets the default grading method to "Regular" or "Satisfactory-Fail" and determines which grading method options are available for each term. During registration, students may change the grading method for a course to an available option based on student eligibility and registration deadlines for the term. Students should be mindful of how grading method selections can impact their enrollment status (i.e. full-time or part-time) for a particular term.
Options
- Regular: Students earn a letter grade (A - F) which will appear on the academic record and be included in a student’s GPA calculation. This option applies to undergraduate and graduate students.
- Pass-Fail: This option may be selected if available to eligible undergraduate students. Pass-Fail marks will appear on the academic record as follows:
- P is equivalent to a grade of C- or better and will not be included in a student’s GPA calculation
- A letter grade of D+, D, D- or F will be included in a student’s GPA calculation
- Satisfactory-Fail: At the graduate level, Satisfactory-Fail is used for certain types of graduate study at the discretion of the graduate program. This grading method may also be an option for some undergraduate courses. Satisfactory-Fail marks will appear on the academic record as follows:
- S will not be included in the student's GPA calculation
- F will be included in the student's GPA calculation
- Audit: This option may be selected if available. This grading method does not imply attendance or any other effort in the course. Audited courses are not included in the calculation of credits for enrollment status (full-time or part-time). Courses completed with this grading method will result in an AU on the student's academic record. Courses with a mark of AU will not be included in a student’s GPA calculation. This option applies to undergraduate and graduate students.
Other Resources: Policy III-6.20(A).
Grading Method FAQs
The grading method options available for each course can be viewed in the Schedule of Classes.
The department offering the course determines which options are available for each term. The options available are published in the Schedule of Classes.
Undergraduate students should see Pass-Fail Grading for additional information. Graduate students are not eligible for Pass-Fail grading method.
Waitlist & Hold File
If a course is full when a student registers, the waitlist/hold file option may be available. Most, but not all courses, offer a waitlist/hold file. Student names are saved to the waitlist/hold file on a first-come, first-served basis and based on the day and time a student confirms placement on the waitlist/hold file. Students will be given a seat in a section if a seat becomes available. Students must process a Waitlist Check-in to officially confirm registration for the course and section.
| Being placed on a waitlist/hold file for a course section does not guarantee that a student will receive that specific section. The waitlist manages students waiting for a day/time, not instructor or building/room. |
- Students on a waitlist/hold file must check-in daily during the mandatory waitlist check-in period posted on the dates and deadlines page. If a student does not check-in once a day during the mandatory waitlist check-in period, their name will be removed from the waitlist.
- To be eligible for the waitlist/hold file, a student cannot be registered for any other section of the desired course. A student would have to drop the registered section before placing themselves on the waitlist/hold file. A student will be removed from any waitlisted sections if registered for the same course.
- Students may place themselves on the waitlist/hold file for up to six (6) sections of a course. A student will be given a seat in the first section that becomes available and all other waitlisted sections will be removed.
- Courses received from the waitlist that conflict with a student's schedule or exceed the credit limit must be resolved immediately. Time conflicts and credit overloads cannot remain on a student's schedule without Advising College approval.
- Once a student has confirmed a course from the waitlist, it is immediately included on the student's schedule for that semester and incurs tuition charges.
- While on the waitlist or hold file, the student is responsible for the material being covered in class. If the student does not receive the course from the waitlist by the end of the mandatory waitlist check-in period, they may not continue to attend the course.
Waitlist & Hold File FAQs
The waitlist is an option if you meet the established course requirements (specific majors, credit levels, special populations, etc.)
The hold file is a roster of students who wish to register for a course, but who do not meet the course restrictions. These students must be placed on the hold file even though the course may have seats available. At the beginning of the semester, students on the hold file will be placed at the end of the waitlist. Students must then follow the established procedure for waitlist check-in.
When you attempt to register for a course (either on Testudo Registration (Drop/Add) or in-person) and the course does not have an available seat, you will have the option to place yourself on the waitlist or hold file, if one is available. You must enter a course and section to add yourself to the waitlist/hold file.
For instructions on how to add yourself to the waitlist, follow this video tutorial.
Testudo Waitlist Check-in is available as soon as you are placed on the waitlist or hold file for a course. You may access it during Testudo's operating hours.
- You are encouraged to check-in when you receive notification that you have received a seat in the course and section.
- You are required to check-in daily during the mandatory waitlist check-in period, which can be found on the dates and deadlines page.
To remain on the waitlist you must check-in once a day, either through Testudo or in-person, during the mandatory waitlist check-in period available on the dates and deadlines page. Students that do not check-in will be removed from the waitlist. If a section has already been assigned, it will be given to the next eligible student.
It is strongly recommended that you attend all sessions held for a waitlisted course if space permits. By doing so, you are able to keep up with the course material. If you are in the top five (5) positions on a waitlist, you will be given access to the course content in ELMS.
Yes, if the course appears in the waitlist section of your course ELMS space, you must still check-in during the mandatory waitlist check-in period to remain on the waitlist.
Not all departments offer waitlists for their courses. It is the decision of the department whether or not to offer a waitlist.
No, being placed on a waitlist does not guarantee that you will receive a seat. It is recommended that you complete your schedule with alternative course choices.
No, to be eligible for the waitlist/hold file you cannot be registered for any other section of the desired course. If you are currently registered for any other section of the course, you must drop that section before you can be placed on the waitlist. If you register for an open section of the same course for which you are already waitlisted, you will be removed from the waitlists.
You may select up to six (6) sections of a course. The first section to become available will automatically be assigned to you. Since you will now be registered for a section, your name will be removed from the waitlist for any additional sections of that course. If you subsequently refuse the assigned section, it will be given to the next person on the waitlist. Then you may attempt to register again and be placed on the waitlist at the end of the list.
You are encouraged to select a section that fits your schedule unless you plan to drop any course that conflicts with the waitlisted section if it is received.
If you do not drop the course that conflicts, you will be notified to resolve the issue in a timely manner or you will be administratively dropped from the course you received from the waitlist.
You must contact your advising college for an exception to policy for a time conflict or credit overload.
The system identifies the issue when students receive the course, and the issue does not update based on any action. The message can only be removed when a waitlist balance is run, generally weekly. In some cases, if students are waitlisted for other courses and checking-in daily, this message will not go away. As long as a student has taken appropriate action to resolve the issue, the student will not be dropped from the course received from the waitlist.
If new sections are opened with exact meeting times of any of your waitlisted sections, you will be automatically confirmed into the new section. You can then process a Waitlist Check-in to officially confirm your registration.
Students are required to process a Waitlist Check-in once per day during the schedule adjustment period as outlined on the dates and deadlines page. If you receive a seat on the last day of the schedule adjustment period, you can check-in the day after the schedule adjustment period to officially confirm your registration.
Blocks, Special Permissions, & Exceptions to Policy
Students may encounter a registration block that prevents them from registering for classes. Some blocks may be viewed prior to registration, while other blocks are only displayed when adding classes during registration. These blocks, special permissions, and exceptions to policy are listed below with details about what each block means and who to contact to resolve the block. Many of these blocks, special permissions, and exceptions to policies can be cleared with permission of the appropriate department (processed in the form of an electronic stamp) which allows students to register using Testudo Registration (Drop/Add).
On this page:
Registration Blocks
Registration blocks can be viewed prior to registration on Testudo. Using the Appointment and Registration Status app, you can view all registration blocks at one time. All registration blocks must be cleared before you can register for classes.
| Block Type | What does it mean? | Who should you contact? |
|---|---|---|
| Academic dismissal - needs advising | You are on academic dismissal and require special permission for all registration requests. | Academic advising college |
| Acad probation - needs advising | You are on academic probation and require special permission for all registration requests. | Academic advising college |
| Academically ineligible | You have been blocked from registration; usually associated with your admission status to the university. | Office of the University Registrar registrar-help@umd.edu 301-314-8240 |
| Administratively ineligible | You have been blocked from registration. | Office of the University Registrar registrar-help@umd.edu 301-314-8240 |
| Athlete: needs SPECADV stamps & Dean's approval | You are an active member of a NCAA sport and require special permission for all registration requests. | Academic advising college |
| Financially ineligible | You have an outstanding financial balance on your student account. | Student Financial Services & Cashiering billtalk@umd.edu 301-314-9000 |
| Judicially ineligible | You have a judicial hold on your registration. | Office of Student Conduct studentconduct@umd.edu 301-314-8204 |
| Mandatory Advising | You must meet and be cleared by the department/advising college listed. If there is more than one department or college listed, the last unit will lift the block. | Academic advising college |
| Must choose a degree major | You have reached 60 credits and have not yet chosen a degree-granting major (still in Letters and Sciences). | Department of desired major to start the change of major process. OR If you would like to remain in Letters and Sciences, submit an Exception to Academic Policy request. |
| Must meet English fundamental studies | You have reached 30 credits (earned + currently registered for) and have not completed an English course that meets the Academic Writing requirement. If you are currently enrolled in a course that will meet the requirement, the block will be lifted after you have earned the credit. | Academic advising college to see if you may be eligible for an exception which will allow you to register using Testudo OR Register in person with the Office of the University Registrar. Your registration must include a course that meets this requirement. |
| Must meet Math fundamental studies | You have reached 30 credits (earned + currently registered for) and have not completed a math course that meets the fundamental studies requirement. If you are currently enrolled in a course that will meet the requirement, the block will be lifted after you have earned the credit. | Academic advising college to see if you may be eligible for an exception which will allow you to register using Testudo OR Register in person with the Office of the University Registrar. Your registration must include a course that meets this requirement. |
| New student requires advising | Newly admitted students must attend a new student orientation program. You will receive advising and will register for classes during the program. | Office of Student Orientation and Transition |
| Proof of vaccination required | You must submit proof of immunizations to register for classes per the university's immunization policy. | University Health Center |
Some students may also see the following registration blocks when accessing Testudo Registration (Drop/Add).
| Block Type | What does it mean? | Who should you contact? |
|---|---|---|
| Student has made too many registration transactions. | Students have a limited number of drop/add transactions that can be processed, and you have exceeded the maximum number that can be processed on Testudo. | Office of the University Registrar registrar-help@umd.edu 301-314-8240 |
| Student last attended in... | As an undergraduate student, you have taken a break in enrollment (not registered during the previous fall or spring semester). | Student Success Office |
| Your graduate admission expired for... | As a graduate student, you have exceeded the time limitations for your degree. | The Graduate School gradschool@umd.edu 301-405-3644 |
Special Permissions & Exceptions to Policy Blocks
Special Permissions blocks are applied to courses that require permission from the academic department offering the course to register. In such cases, students will need to contact the academic department directly to register for the course.
Exceptions to Policy blocks are student-specific and require students to submit an Exception to Policy request to their advising college to register for the course.
When applicable, these blocks will display when accessing Testudo Registration (Drop/Add).
| Block Type | What does it mean? | What should you do? |
|---|---|---|
| By Permission Only - appear in Schedule of Classes as: (Perm Req) | You need permission from the department to register for the course. This permission is required for all students. | Contact the department offering the course. |
| Changes after schedule adjustment period | You are attempting to add, drop, or make a change to grading method or credit level after the academic deadline. | To request an exception to make a change to the course, submit an exception to policy request following your academic advising college instructions. |
| Gen Ed requirement | You have over 60 credits and are only allowed to register for one Gen Ed course. | To request to register for another Gen Ed course, follow the instructions of your academic advising college. |
| Oversubscribe into closed course | You are attempting to register for a class whose seats have been filled. | Add yourself to the waitlist, if available. Check out instructions for Waitlist/Holdfile. |
| Pass/Fail override | You are attempting to register for a course with the pass/fail grading method but do not meet the Pass/Fail grading requirements. | To request an exception to the pass/fail grading requirements, submit an exception to policy request following your academic advising college instructions. |
| Repeat Course | You are attempting to register for a course for the third time, this is in violation of the Repeat Course Guidelines. | To request permission for a third repeat, submit an exception to policy request following your academic advising college instructions. |
| Repeat Limit | You are attempting to register for a course which will exceed the repeat credit limit, this is in violation of the Repeat Course Guidelines. | To request permission to exceed the repeat limit, submit an exception to policy request following your academic advising college instructions. |
| Seats reserved for incoming students | See Seat Management Plan. | See Seat Management Plan. |
| Time Conflict | You are attempting to register for two courses which meet at the same time or have an overlap. | To request permission for a time conflict, submit an exception to policy request following your academic advising college instructions. |
| Total Credit Limit Reached | You have reached the maximum credit limit for the term. | To request permission for a credit overload, submit an exception to policy request following your academic advising college instructions. |
| Undergraduate student taking graduate course | You are an undergraduate student attempting to register for a graduate level course. | To request an exception to register for a graduate level course, submit an exception to policy request following your academic advising college instructions. |
Add & Drop Classes
After an initial registration, students may make changes to their schedule by adding or dropping classes. A student's permanent record and student account may be impacted by the timing of these changes. See below for information about the schedule adjustment period, drop period, and refund schedule.
| Students who want to drop all their courses are separating from the university. Visit Separating from the University to determine the next steps. |
On this page:
Undergraduate Students
Schedule Adjustment Period for Undergraduate Students
The Schedule Adjustment Period is a designated period of time at the beginning of each term when students can add or drop courses. Courses added will appear on the student’s permanent record. Courses dropped during this period will not appear on the student’s permanent academic record. Students are responsible for checking the corresponding dates and deadlines and Non-Standard Courses for exact Schedule Adjustment dates.
| There may be a financial penalty for drops during the Schedule Adjustment Period. Review the refund schedule below for detailed information about drops. |
| Term | Business Days for Schedule Adjustment Period |
|---|---|
| Fall and Spring semester | 10 days |
| Winter, Summer IA, IB, IIC, IID (3-week sessions) | 1 day |
| Summer I and II (6-week sessions) | 4 days |
Drop Period for Undergraduate Students
The Drop Period is a designated period of time after the end of the Schedule Adjustment Period. For undergraduate students, drops during this period will be recorded on the student's permanent record with a mark of W and will not be used in the computation of a student's cumulative grade point average. During this period an undergraduate student may drop a maximum of four credits. However, if the course carries more than four credits, the student may drop the entire course, or in the case of a variable credit course, reduce the credit level by up to four credits. A course dropped with a W will count as an attempt at a course for the purposes of the undergraduate course repeat guidelines.
Students are responsible for checking the corresponding dates and deadlines and Non-Standard Courses for exact dates.
| Term | Drop Period Ends |
|---|---|
| Fall and Spring semester | 10th week of semester |
| Winter, Summer IA, IB, IIC, IID (3-week sessions) | 2nd week of term |
| Summer I and II (6-week sessions) | 4th week of term |
Penalties for Drops During Schedule Adjustment (Refund Schedules) for Undergraduate Students
Full-time Undergraduates - Refund Schedule for Drops
Full-time undergraduate students do not receive a refund for courses dropped if the total number of credits for which they are registered remains 12 or more.
Full-time undergraduate students who drop a course or courses thereby changing the total credits for which the student is registered to 11 or less, will be charged as noted below:
- Prior to the first day of classes: If a full-time undergraduate student drops a course or courses, thereby changing the total number of credits for which the student is registered to 11 or less, the student will be charged part-time per credit hour tuition. However, if the student later adds a course or courses, thereby changing the total number of credits for which the student is registered to 12 or more, the student will be charged full-time tuition.
- During the first five days of classes: If a full-time undergraduate student drops a course or courses, thereby changing the total number of credits for which the student is registered to 11 or less, the student will be charged part-time per credit hour tuition. However, if the student later adds a course or courses, thereby changing the total number of credits for which the student is registered to 12 or more, the student will be charged full-time tuition.
- After day five of schedule adjustment through the end of schedule adjustment: If a full-time undergraduate drops a course or courses thereby changing the total number of credits for which the student is registered to 11 or less, charges for the semester will be assessed on the basis of part-time per credit hour tuition plus 20% of the difference between the full-time tuition and fees and appropriate part-time charges.
- After the Schedule Adjustment Period: There will be no refund for changing from full-time to part-time status.
Part-Time Undergraduates - Refund Schedule for Drops
Part-time undergraduates are charged for courses by the credit hour. Students may drop and add courses without penalty provided that the changes are made on the same day and the total number of credits does not change (even exchange). Otherwise, a percentage charge and/or complete charge will be imposed according to the schedule below:
- Prior to the first day of classes: 100% refund. There will be no charge for courses dropped prior to this date.
- [Effective Fall 2023] During the first five days of classes: 100% refund. There will be no charge for courses dropped during this period. For Summer and Winter view the associated dates and deadlines for the no charge drop period deadlines. For non-standard courses, see non-standard course deadlines for more information.
- [Effective Fall 2023] After day five of schedule adjustment through the end of schedule adjustment: 80% refund. There will be a 20% charge imposed for courses dropped during this period. For Summer and Winter terms view the associated dates and deadlines for the no charge drop period deadlines. For non-standard courses, see non-standard course deadlines for more information.
- Anytime after the Schedule Adjustment Period: 0% refund. There will be no refund; students incur the full charge for courses dropped during this period.
| Students who wish to cancel their registration or completely withdraw from the university will be held to the refund schedule posted on the dates and deadlines page. |
Graduate Students
Schedule Adjustment Period for Graduate Students
The Schedule Adjustment Period is a designated period of time at the beginning of each term when students can add or drop courses. Courses added will appear on a student’s permanent record. Courses dropped during this period will not appear on the student’s permanent record. Students are responsible for checking the corresponding dates and deadlines and Non-Standard Courses for exact Schedule Adjustment dates.
| There may be a financial penalty for drops during the Schedule Adjustment Period. Review the refund schedule below for detailed information about drops. |
| Term | Business Days for Schedule Adjustment Period |
|---|---|
| Fall and Spring semester | 10 days |
| Winter, Summer IA, IB, IIC, IID (3-week sessions) | 1 day |
| Summer I and II (6-week sessions) | 4 days |
| 12-week term | 8 days |
Drop Period for Graduate Students
The Drop Period is a designated period of time after the end of the Schedule Adjustment Period when graduate students may change the number of credits for a course, change the grading method option for a course, or drop a course. Students are responsible for checking the corresponding dates and deadlines and Non-Standard Courses for exact dates.
| Term | Drop Period Ends |
|---|---|
| Fall and Spring semester | 10th week of semester |
| Winter, Summer IA, IB, IIC, IID (3-week sessions) | 2nd week of term |
| Summer I and II (6-week sessions) | 4th week of term |
| 12-week term | 8th week of term |
Refund Schedule for Drops for Graduate Students
Students may drop and add courses without penalty provided that the changes are made on the same day and that the total number of credits does not change (even exchange). A percentage charge and/or complete charge will be imposed according to the schedule below:
- Prior to the first day of classes: 100% refund. There will be no charge for courses dropped prior to this date.
- [Effective Spring 2023] During the first five days of classes: 100% refund. There will be no charge for courses dropped during this period. For Summer, Winter, and 12-week terms view the associated dates and deadlines for the no charge drop period deadlines. For non-standard courses, see non-standard course deadlines for more information.
- [Effective Spring 2023] After day five of schedule adjustment through the end of schedule adjustment: 80% refund. There will be a 20% charge imposed for courses dropped during this period. For Summer, Winter, and 12-week terms view the associated dates and deadlines for the no charge drop period deadlines. For non-standard courses, see non-standard course deadlines for more information.
- Anytime after the Schedule Adjustment Period: 0% refund. There will be no refund; students incur the full charge for courses dropped during this period.
| Students who wish to cancel their registration or completely withdraw from the university will be held to the Refund Schedule posted on the dates and deadlines page. |
Appeal to Withdraw After Deadline
Students are expected to withdraw from the semester according to the policy and procedures outlined by the university. It is the student’s responsibility to know and adhere to all academic policies. In exceptional cases, a retroactive withdrawal may be granted based on documented requests in which extenuating circumstances significantly impaired the student's ability to complete the semester and officially withdraw by the established semester deadlines. Such circumstances include, but are not limited to, medical or psychological causes.
The Office of the University Registrar will only review requests for a complete semester withdrawal impacting all courses. If the request concerns a single course, students should contact their advising college. Exceptions for retroactive withdrawals are granted only in the event of rare and extraordinary circumstances that were beyond a student’s control. The university does not make exceptions for poor judgement, poor performance, or forgetfulness. If your circumstances involve factors beyond your control, please follow the steps below to submit an Appeal for Special Exception.
Steps to Submit an Appeal for Special Exception
- Fill out the Appeal for Special Exception Form and submit your completed and signed form to registrar-appeals@umd.edu.
- Review the Appeals Checklist and begin gathering the supporting documentation you will need to submit.
- Check your email to confirm receipt of your form from registrar-appeals@umd.edu. This email will provide you with a link to your personal Box folder and instructions on how to use Box. The email will also contain information about the types of supporting documentation you will be required to submit.
- Log into Box with your UMD login information. If you are not a current UMD student, you can register with Box for free. Your access will give you the ability to upload files related to your appeal and view materials to be submitted to the Appeals Committee; however, you will not have the ability to delete or edit once you complete the upload.
- Complete the Appeals Checklist and check off the documentation you are submitting. Then, upload the checklist and your documentation to the Box folder.
- After all of your required documents are uploaded, email registrar-appeals@umd.edu to indicate your submission is complete.
- Review of your appeal will not begin until all required materials have been submitted.
- A decision about your appeal will be emailed to the address you provided on your Appeal for Special Exception Form.
Your Appeal for Special Exception requires intensive review and may take three to four weeks for you to receive notification of a decision. The Office of the University Registrar is subject to University System of Maryland and State of Maryland Legislative audits, for which each appeal must be justified and have clear and substantiated documentation for each case.
Withdraw from the University
Students may request a withdrawal from all classes at any time between the first and the last day of classes for the semester. Students must submit written notice of withdrawal to the Office of the University Registrar no later than the last day of classes.
The effective date of the withdrawal for purposes of any refund is the date that the written withdrawal notice is received by the Office of the University Registrar.
Non-degree seeking students must follow the same deadlines to request a withdrawal and are subject to the same refund schedules as degree-seeking students.
On this page:
Undergraduate Students
Degree-Seeking Undergraduate Students
Students admitted to the University of Maryland are expected to make regular and consistent progress toward the completion of their degree. However, the university understands that in exceptional circumstances a student may find it necessary to completely withdraw from all classes. The university considers such an interruption to be very serious as it delays normal progress toward the degree. Students should not withdraw for frivolous reasons or to avoid the consequences of ignoring their academic responsibilities.
Students who have earned a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA with no previous withdrawal will need to apply for readmission. All other students who find it necessary to leave the university are required to petition the Faculty Review Board in order to be reinstated. (Withdrawals prior to Fall 2002 or those occurring in a summer or winter session will not be considered in this requirement.)
Withdrawal Procedures for Degree-Seeking Undergraduate Students
Students may request a withdrawal from all classes at any time between the first and the last day of classes for the semester. Students must submit written notice of withdrawal to the Office of the University Registrar no later than the last day of classes. In exceptional cases, a retroactive withdrawal may be granted based on documented requests in which extenuating circumstances significantly impaired the student's ability to complete the semester and officially withdraw by the established semester deadlines. Such circumstances include, but are not limited to, medical or psychological causes.
In addition to academic consequences, a withdrawal can have serious effects for students receiving financial assistance, international students, and students in residence halls. It is the student's responsibility to review these potential implications with the appropriate offices listed below before withdrawing:
- Student Financial Services & Cashiering | 1135 Lee Building | Phone: 301-314-9000
- International Student & Scholar Services | 1126 H.J. Patterson Hall | Phone: 301-314-7740
- Department of Resident Life | 2101 Annapolis Hall | Phone: 301-314-2100
The effective date of the withdrawal for purposes of any refund is the date that the written withdrawal notice is received by the Office of the University Registrar. For more information on academic deadlines and refund schedule, please see Dates and Deadlines. Notation of withdrawal and the effective date will be posted on the student's academic record. Instructors and college offices will be notified of all withdrawn students.
To withdraw from all courses, students must complete:
- Undergraduate Withdrawal Form
- Survey of Students Leaving the University of Maryland During the Semester
Please return both forms to the Office of the University Registrar, 7999 Regents Dr., First Floor, C. Mitchell Jr. Building, College Park, Maryland 20742; fax: 301-314-9568; or email registrar-help@umd.edu.
| Students seeking a retroactive withdrawal must review Appeal to Withdraw After Deadline. |
Non-Degree Seeking Undergraduate Students
Withdrawal Procedures for Non-Degree Seeking Undergraduate Students
Students may request a withdrawal from all classes at any time between the first and the last day of classes for the semester. Students must submit written notice of withdrawal to the Office of the University Registrar no later than the last day of classes.
The effective date of the withdrawal for purposes of any refund is the date that the written withdrawal notice is received by the Office of University the Registrar. For more information on academic deadlines and refund schedule, please see Dates and Deadlines.
To withdraw from all courses, students must complete:
- Non-Degree-Seeking Undergraduate Student Withdrawal Form
Send the completed form to the Office of the University Registrar, 7999 Regents Dr., First Floor, C. Mitchell Jr. Building, College Park, Maryland 20742; fax: 301-314-9568; or email registrar-help@umd.edu.
Reenrollment for Undergraduate Students
- Students who are required to petition the Faculty Review Board for reinstatement may submit their petition online.
- Students who have a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and no previous withdrawals may apply for reenrollment online.
- Students with questions or concerns about reenrollment should contact the Student Success Office via email at rr-admit@umd.edu.
Undergraduate Student Withdrawal FAQs
The withdrawal policy applies to undergraduate students who wish to drop all their courses and cease attendance at the university for a semester. Students admitted to the University of Maryland are expected to make regular and consistent progress toward the completion of their degree. There may be exceptional circumstances that require a student to drop all classes and withdraw from school. The university considers such interruptions to be a serious matter as they delay a student's progress toward their degree. Consequently, students should not use the withdrawal process for frivolous reasons or to avoid the consequences of ignoring their academic responsibilities.
The University of Maryland is committed to the academic success of its students and wishes to ensure that students fully understand all consequences of withdrawing and have a clear plan for reenrolling and completing their degrees. See the Undergraduate Withdrawal Procedures above for more information.
With the exception of students who have earned a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA with no previous withdrawal, students who find it necessary to leave the university are required to petition the Faculty Review Board in order to return. Students petitioning the Faculty Review Board are also required to complete a Reinstatement Advising Meeting with their academic college advising office before a petition is considered.
If you are called to active duty in the U.S. armed forces, you may withdraw and receive a full refund of your tuition and fees for that semester. Students may reenroll upon completion of their tour of duty. See Active Military Duty for more information.
Graduate Students
Degree-Seeking Graduate Students Enrolled in a Semester Program
Graduate students admitted to the University of Maryland are expected to make satisfactory progress in meeting programmatic requirements, must demonstrate the ability to succeed in their course of studies or research, must attain performance minima specified by the graduate program in all or in particular courses, and complete their degree within the established time limits.
Withdrawal Procedures for Degree-Seeking Graduate Students Enrolled in a Semester Program
Students may request a withdrawal from all classes at any time between the first and the last day of classes for the semester. Students must submit written notice of withdrawal to the Office of the University Registrar no later than the last day of classes.
In addition to academic consequences, a withdrawal can have ramifications on financial aid, visa status, graduate student status, and progress toward earning a degree. It is the student's responsibility to review these potential implications with the appropriate offices.
- Assistantships and Tuition Remission Benefit: Contact your Benefits Coordinator
- Fellowship: Contact Advisor and Graduate Program Director
- Financial Aid: Contact Student Financial Services & Cashiering | 1135 Lee Building | Phone: 301-314-9000
- F-1 and J-1 Visa Holders: Contact International Student & Scholar Services | 1126 H.J. Patterson Hall | Phone: 301-314-7740
| To request a leave of absence, the student and their department/program must complete the Request for Leave of Absence Form found on the Forms page of the Graduate School website. |
The effective date of the withdrawal, for purposes of any refund, is the date that the written withdrawal notice is received by the Office of the University Registrar. For more information on academic deadlines and refund schedule, please see Dates and Deadlines.
To withdraw from all courses, students must complete:
- Degree-Seeking Graduate Student Withdrawal Form
Send the completed form to the Office of the University Registrar, 7999 Regents Dr., First Floor, C. Mitchell Jr. Building, College Park, Maryland 20742; fax: 301-314-9568; or email registrar-graduate@umd.edu.
Non-Degree Seeking Graduate Students
For more information for about Non-Degree Seeking student status, see the Academic Catalog.
Withdrawal Procedures for Non-Degree Seeking Graduate Students
Students may request a withdrawal from all classes at any time between the first and the last day of classes for the semester. Students must submit written notice of withdrawal to the Office of the University Registrar no later than the last day of classes.
The effective date of the withdrawal for purposes of any refund is the date that the written withdrawal notice is received by the Office of the University Registrar. For more information on academic deadlines and refund schedule, please see Dates and Deadlines.
To withdraw from all courses, students must complete:
- Non-Degree-Seeking Graduate Student Withdrawal Form
Send the completed form to the Office of the University Registrar, 7999 Regents Dr., First Floor, C. Mitchell Jr. Building, College Park, Maryland 20742; fax: 301-314-9568; or email registrar-graduate@umd.edu.
Cancel Registration
Students who register and later decide not to attend the University must cancel their registration before the first day of classes. See dates and deadlines for cancellation dates. Failure to cancel registration will result in financial obligation to the university even though the student does not attend class.
Complete the Cancellation of Registration Form .
- The Cancellation of Registration form must be received by the Office of the University Registrar prior to the first day of classes since the university can honor only those requests for cancellation which are actually received by the deadline (prior to the first day of classes).
| Cancellation of Housing and Dining Services is a separate process. |