It can be difficult to know if you should drop a class or stick with it a little longer to see if it improves. The problem is you need to come to a decision while you’re still within the withdrawal window, which means the pressure is on. To make up your mind, here are a few factors you can use to decide if you should drop a class.

1. You’re Likely to Fail

You may be likely to fail because the class is too difficult, in which case you could benefit from taking an introductory class first, receiving tutoring over the summer, or doing something else to prepare. Of course, these strategies are only worthwhile if you do need the class. If the class is not a requirement for your major, you’re better off dropping it and never looking back.

Alternatively, you may be on track to fail because you forgot to hand in an assignment on time or missed a test the professor won’t let you retake. In these cases, it’s better to drop the class and take it again later.

2. It Will Bring Down Your GPA

You may not be doing badly enough to fail but your grade may still bring down your GPA considerably. If it’s a required class, use the same strategies as above. However, if it’s an elective you thought you’d enjoy but are finding difficult, your best option is likely to drop the class and choose something different next time. In particular, it may be worth picking an elective that’s graded as pass or fail to avoid any impact on your GPA.

3. Your Mental Health Is Suffering

Never allow a class to have a negative impact on your mental health — it’s just not worth it. Even if you need the class, it’s better not to continue. You can take it again when you feel more prepared or have a lighter schedule.

4. You Were Wrong About Needing the Class

You may have signed up for a class because you thought it was a requirement for your major but have since found out you were mistaken. If you dislike the class or can’t even use it for credit, you should definitely drop it. Learn from this experience that you should always confirm with your academic advisor at the start of the semester that you’re taking the right classes.

5. You Never Attend

Nonexistent attendance is a clear sign a class is not right for you. It could be that the class is too early in the morning, straight after another class located in a completely different part of campus, or just uninteresting.

Sometimes, the issue may not be that the class is a poor fit but that you’re unable to give it the attention it deserves. This can happen if you have nowhere you can study in peace or you’re not gaining enough sleep before an early morning class because there’s too much noise in your dorm. The solution is to move into off-campus housing. You’ll find apartments near UOttawa at THEO. You can choose to share a room, have a private bedroom in a shared apartment, or even have your own apartment to yourself. In addition to studying in your bedroom, you’ll be able to work on assignments in any of our 14 study areas, our art room, and our music rooms. Apply now for the floor plan you want.