Frequently Asked Questions

Medical & Compassionate Withdrawal (MCW) and Selective Course Load Reduction (SCLR)

This section answers common questions about the Medical & Compassionate Withdrawal (MCW) and Selective Course Load (SCLR) policy. It explains key differences, deadlines, impacts on grades and financial aid, and how appeals work. Expand each item below to see clear, student friendly answers.

A: The final day to submit a MCW or SCLR application is the last class day of the following semester. (Ex: the deadline for Fall 2025 is the last day of Spring 2026).The deadline for summer applications is the last class day of the subsequent fall semester.

Documentation that supports the reason for withdrawal such as doctor’s notes, obituaries, medical records, and police reports are accepted. (Personal statements can be used in lieu of documentation in certain compassionate circumstances; when a personal statement is submitted, the student is required to meet with the Dean of Students staff.)

MCW applications are processed within 14 days and SCLR applications within 21 days. These timelines pause until all required documentation is received and may be extended during university closures, holidays, other disruptions, or unusual circumstances warranting a delay.

MCW and SCLR requests are limited to one per student during their career at UTA. However, exceptions can be made in unusual circumstances if the new situation is unexpected, unforeseen, and completely unrelated to the issue that led to the first withdrawal or selective course load reduction. Undergraduate and graduate studies are considered separate “careers” at UTA for purposes of MCW/SCLR requests.

An approved MCW is not a tuition or fee refund; that is a separate process available here. We encourage students to meet with their advisor to discuss how the approved CMW or SCLR affects their degree plan. Please note that all approved decisions are final and cannot be reversed.

We encourage students to meet with their advisor to discuss next academic steps. If you wish to appeal the decision, you may submit an appeal here. Appeals must be submitted within 14 days of the denial notification.

Students should contact Financial Aid and Scholarships, Military and Veterans Services, Housing and Residence Life, Athletics, and Office of International Education (for international students) to understand how the withdrawal affects benefits, visas, or eligibility.