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The Mysterious “W”: Will it damage my transcript?

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The question of whether a “W” on one's transcript is a “bad thing” often puzzles students.

This issue needs clarification. As advisors, we try to explain the meaning of a “W” on the record. Simply, “W” is not a grade; it shows, however, that the student took a course, and decided to withdraw from it at some point in the semester.

While we do not encourage students to make a habit of taking courses and then withdrawing, it is not uncommon for some students to withdraw from a course or two during their college careers.

Some students believe that one or two “W” entries on the transcript will negatively impact their acceptance to graduate school or their chances for obtaining their “dream job.” This is not true. Consistently withdrawing from courses, however, will indicate a problem.

Let us examine the use of the “W” more closely. The University allows an add/drop period during the first two weeks of the semester (one week during the summer session); dropping a course in that time frame requires no notation on the transcript. If, however, a student wishes to drop a course after the initial add/drop period ends, his departure from the course is now recorded on the transcript with the “W.” The transcript indicates that the studentwas enrolled in the course, and withdrew.

Here is one possible scenario for the use of the “W.” A student has taken a course load of 15 credits for a semester. He is well into the semester and realizes he is struggling with a three credit course. He chooses to withdraw from the course rather than do poorly and have his semester GPA negatively affected. He knows he can take the course at a later date and do well if he has a lighter course load. A “W” has no academic value, it does not affect the GPA, and it does not offer an explanation or reasons for the withdrawal—it is completely neutral in this regard.

Students often ask, “What looks better, a D or a W on my transcript?” The answer to this question can be different in some situations. It appears that a W is the better alternative to the D, which does affect the GPA; in some cases, however, it might be wiser to take the passing grade in spite of the fact that it will impact the GPA. This might be a time when advising will be important. When a student is failing, the preferred option would be to withdraw – a “W” is always better than an “F.”

We hope that this explanation has cleared up the puzzling question once asked by that great English Bard Bill Shakespeare: To “W” or not to “W?” We hope, moreover, that our students will utilize our services. This is why we are here in Melville Library, E-2360!