Late Withdrawal

OTC may grant a Late Withdrawal to a student who experiences non-academic emergencies which interfere or prevent the completion of coursework. This option is only available if the student is unable to resolve their problem through traditional withdrawal methods. Typically, circumstances (non-academic emergencies) that may be grounds for a late withdrawl tend to fall into one of three categories. These categories are usually medical, personal and financial. OTC does not grant late withdrawals unless there is a compelling reason for such requests.

The late withdrawal process is not the appropriate venue to resolve or petition academic matters. Students must address such concerns to the respective department. In addition, the late withdrawal process is not an alternative means to drop classes after the published drop date to remove unwanted grades or preclude resulting academic/financial aid actions. These actions may be warnings, probation or exclusion etc.

The following conditions apply to Late Withdrawal:

1. Students are not eligible for Late Withdrawals in any course in which they completed the course requirements. This would apply to classes in which they took the final exam or submitted the final project.
2. Students must apply no more than four weeks into the following semester including the summer term. This applies whether or not the student enrolls in the next semester. In significant extenuating circumstances, this timeframe may be extended at the sole discretion of the Dean of Students
3. OTC will only approve a late withdrawal for one semester and will not consider subsequent applications.

To apply for a Late Withdrawal, the student must submit the following to the Office of the Dean of Students:

1. A completed Petition for Late Withdrawal. 
2. A written personal statement of hardship. The written personal statement of hardship should explain how and/or why the non-academic emergency impacted studies. It is essential that the student gives accurate details about the circumstances surrounding the hardship. For instance, students should provide date(s) of the emergency. They should also give an account of how the situation specifically prevented the completion of coursework.
3. Required supporting documentation:

The Dean of Students will review and rule on all applications for Late Withdrawal.