Beginning fall 2025, UAB will implement an Extended Drop Period designed to give students more time to make informed decisions about their courses.

Currently, students have one week from the start of the semester to drop a class without a grade appearing on their transcript. Under the new policy, that window will be extended by five additional weeks—providing a total of six weeks from the start of the semester to drop a course without academic penalty.

This means students have until October 8 to drop a class without receiving a grade. Students will not have to pay tuition, but course-related fees will still apply. To avoid those fees entirely, the class must be dropped by September 2.

This change, developed in partnership with the UAB Faculty Senate, is intended to give students additional time to receive feedback on coursework, assess their academic progress, and make decisions that best support their success.

It also provides faculty more opportunity to offer meaningful early assessments and helps advisors guide students with more complete performance information.

Key Details About the Extended Drop Period

• Applies to undergraduate and graduate students during fall and spring semesters.
• Dropped courses will not appear on transcripts and students will receive a tuition refund (course fees and student service fees are not refunded).
• The Extended Drop Deadline is firm and will be published in the academic calendar.
• After the extended period, students can still withdraw from a course or the full term—without refund.
• Dropping below full-time may affect financial aid, scholarships, visas, and NCAA eligibility. Students should consult with advisors before making decisions. Consider these impacts carefully, as they may result in additional charges to the student or affect a student’s participation in sports and enrollment at UAB.
• Dropping a course does not negate compliance with academic integrity code, non-academic conduct, or Title IX.