Is withdrawing from a college course common? Are their usually any consequences other then financial from it?

Answer 1

It's very common for students to withdraw from a class, for a number of reasons, and yes, in some situations, it can effect one's financial aid.

For example, I've had students withdraw because they thought they could handle the workload when they really couldn't. Others have withdrawn because they found another section that fits better into their schedule. Some have withdrawn because of emergencies--injuries, death in the family, etc. And some have withdrawn when they realized that they probably won't pass.

Now when it comes to financial aid, there are some financial aid sources that don't take withdrawing lightly. Why not? Because it could show that you're not serious about your studies. "You can't simply withdraw anytime you want, as often as you want" is the attitude taken by several financial aid sources.

Answer 2

Yeah, it is. I personally have never withdrawn from a class, but most of the people that I know have at least once. Well, it just depends if you withdraw before the deadline. Because if you don't I think it doesn't go down as a "W".

Answer 3

It's not uncommon. If you get past the midterm and don't expect a decent grade, it may be a good opportunity to get out of the class without penalty. The only consequence is the W that stays on your record, but the W could be for a variety of good reasons (i.e., got sick, family emergency, etc). Beats getting a low grade.