Are you secretly considering withdrawing from college? Yeah, I said it—walking away from the place that promised you a ticket to the good life, but is currently giving you more stress than satisfaction. The decision to pull the plug on college, even if temporarily, isn’t just about waving goodbye to classes and ramen nights (of Two Dollar Tuesdays). It’s about recalibrating your trajectory, realizing that sometimes cutting your losses is the smartest play.

College isn’t always the holy grail of success, despite what your high school guidance counselor might’ve said. Maybe you’re buried in debt, maybe the mental toll is too high, or maybe you’re just not sure what you want anymore. The idea of “sticking it out” for a degree that’s supposed to open doors is becoming less and less appealing, especially when you see entrepreneurs, coders, and creators thriving without a diploma.

If you’re considering withdrawing, know this: it’s not failure, it’s a strategy. A pivot. But don’t just ghost your campus; there are steps you need to take to ensure that if you ever want to come back, you can. So, let’s dive into how to withdraw the smart way, the way that keeps doors open rather than slamming them shut. Because in the game of life, sometimes hitting pause is what lets you play longer and stronger. If you’re a college student considering withdrawal, here are my 11 boxes to check:

1. Reflect and Consider Alternatives:
   • Before making a final decision, reflect on the reasons for withdrawing. Consider if there are alternative solutions to address the challenges you’re facing, such as seeking academic support, counseling, or taking a leave of absence.
   • If after considering other options everyone agrees it’s the best option, pick a specific date to start the process.
2. Review College Policies:
   • Familiarize yourself with your college’s withdrawal policies. Each institution may have its own procedures and deadlines for withdrawing from classes or the entire college. You can find this information in the college handbook or on the college’s website – normally on the registrar’s page or student services.
3. Schedule a Meeting with an Academic Advisor:
   • This is essential! Your college student MUST meet with their academic advisor to discuss the decision and other moving parts. They can provide guidance on the academic implications of withdrawal, including the impact on your GPA, financial aid, and progress toward degree completion.
4. Consult Financial Aid Office:
   • If they are receiving financial aid, schedule a meeting with the financial aid office. Understand the implications of withdrawal on their financial aid package, and inquire about any repayment requirements for grants or loans.
5. Meet with Student Services or Counseling Services:
   • Many colleges offer counseling or student services to support students facing challenges. Schedule a meeting to discuss the decision and explore any resources that might help them navigate your current situation. If nothing else, meeting with counseling services will help your student through the difficult process of leaving.
6. Complete Withdrawal Forms:
   • If they decide to proceed with withdrawal, obtain the necessary withdrawal forms from the registrar’s office or online portal. Follow the instructions carefully and provide any required documentation.
7. Submit Forms Within Deadlines:
   • Ensure that you submit the withdrawal forms within the specified deadlines. Missing deadlines may have consequences, including academic penalties or financial obligations.
8. Address Housing and Meal Plans:
   • If they live on campus or have a meal plan, work with the appropriate offices to address housing and meal plan arrangements. Understand any financial implications related to these aspects.
9. Communicate with Professors:
   • College students avoid this but it’s so helpful – Inform the professors about your decision to withdraw as soon as possible. Discuss any outstanding assignments or exams, and inquire about the possibility of incomplete grades if applicable. Ghosting professors doesn’t end well for anyone.
10. Follow-Up on Administrative Steps:
    • Confirm that all administrative steps related to withdrawal are completed. This may include returning books, settling outstanding fees, and any other requirements outlined by the college. DON’T WAIT TO HEAR BACK FROM ANYONE! Follow up every few days.
11. Consider Re-Enrollment or Future Plans:
    • If your student intends to (or there is even a small chance they will) re-enroll in the future or pursue education elsewhere, discuss these plans with the academic advisor. They can provide guidance on the re-enrollment process or transferring credits to another institution.

Remember, each college may have specific procedures and deadlines, so it’s crucial to follow the guidelines provided by your institution. Seeking support from academic advisors, counseling services, and financial aid offices can help you make an informed decision and navigate the withdrawal process more effectively. The clowns that push or judge you (yeah, including your parents) likely have the best intentions but don’t have to wake up and fall asleep with the racing thoughts that build like plaque on your brain. Hitting pause on college is a tough decision but you’ll get through it.