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Drop/Add Period

Understanding the Drop/Add Period in Higher Education

The drop/add period is a specific timeframe at the beginning of an academic term when students can freely adjust their course schedule. It allows students to drop or add courses without academic or financial penalties.

Glossary Terms
Term
Description
Add Period

The timeframe during which students can add courses to their schedule.

Drop Period

The window when students may drop courses without academic record impact.

Schedule Adjustment

The process of modifying a course schedule during the drop/add period.

Late Add Request

A formal request submitted after the add period to enroll in a course.

Financial Aid Impact

Adjustments to enrollment may affect aid eligibility depending on course load.

Instructor Approval

Permission required in some cases to add a class during or after the drop/add period.

Evolving Registration Policies

Institutions now offer mobile registration portals, instant course seat availability, and auto-alerts to students during the drop/add window. Some also integrate predictive analytics to recommend schedule adjustments.