The information below addresses commonly asked questions about the undergraduate withdrawal process. As it is general in nature, you should always discuss your specific situation with an associate director before finalizing a withdrawal.
Academic Advising
Notify your academic advisor of your intention to withdraw. Be sure you have gathered any necessary information about the courses you’ve taken (description, syllabus, etc) to facilitate transferring of credits.
Academic Transcript
The notation “discontinued” will be listed on your transcript, along with the effective date.
Class Registration
When your withdrawal request is approved and updated, your course registration will be cancelled for the upcoming term and your name removed from class lists.
Financial Implications / Tuition Cancellation Schedule
Semester tuition and fees are adjusted based on the effective date of the withdrawal, in accordance with the published tuition refund schedule. This schedule provides for the full cancellation of tuition and fees for students who withdraw prior to the first day of the semester, so please work with the USC early to confirm your plans and update your records. If your plans aren’t definite as the start of the semester approaches, or if you are considering a permanent withdrawal once the semester has started, please contact the USC associate directors (617-358-1818; usc@bu.edu) to discuss best next steps.
International Students / Visa Status
International students on a student visa may not remain in the U.S. following withdrawal. Please discuss your plans with your assigned advisor in the International Students and Scholars Office.
On-campus Housing
Your on-campus housing assignment will be cancelled and the space reassigned. Please reference BU Housing’s Withdrawals and Leave of Absence policy and speak with a USC associate director if you have questions about your specific situation. Residence and dining charges are adjusted in accordance with the Terms and Conditions of the Residence License Agreement.
Financial Aid
Need-based financial aid, loans, and BU scholarships will be cancelled. For more information, visit BU Financial Assistance. Any award offered by a private donor will be adjusted according to the terms stipulated by the donor.
Student Account/Billing
Allow two to three business days for account adjustments to be reflected in your online invoice; adjustment of financial aid funds may take up to thirty days. If these adjustments result in a credit balance (over-payment) on your account, the credit may be refunded upon your request to Student Accounts.
Loan Deferment/Repayment
Student and parent educational loans will go into repayment status when you are no longer enrolled. Information on payment amounts, grace periods, etc., can be obtained from your lender(s); you may also find it useful to browse the links provided by the Office of Financial Assistance.
Health Insurance
The Boston University Student Medical Insurance Plan coverage is yearlong and begins each August.
Undergraduate students who withdraw from the University by the beginning of August will have the SHIP coverage for the upcoming academic year canceled, and the charge removed.
Students who are enrolled in the Boston University Student Medical Insurance Plan for the academic year, and then withdraw effective the spring semester will retain the coverage through the remainder of the policy period.
For more information about SHIP, please visit the Student Health Services resource page.
Student Employment/Work Study
Alert your employer that you will not be returning to your position.
Access to Services
Access to BU services (FitRec membership, library borrowing privileges, etc.) ceases upon withdrawal.
BU Email and Student Link Access
Your BU Google Apps account (including email) will be deactivated after you withdraw. See www.bu.edu/tech/support/google/account-expiration.
