A DP grade, or Dropped Passing, indicates that a student has dropped a course after the designated deadline but was passing the course at the time of withdrawal.
Understanding DP Grades
When a student decides to withdraw from a class after the drop/add period, it's important to understand the different ways this can be recorded on their academic transcript. Typically, universities use specific codes to denote the circumstance of withdrawal. One such code is DP, which signals that the student was in good standing academically (i.e., passing) when they dropped the class.
Key Points About DP Grades:
- Timing: A DP grade is assigned after the formal drop deadline for the course has passed.
- Academic Standing: Crucially, a DP grade indicates the student was passing the course when they chose to withdraw.
- Transcript Impact: A DP grade usually doesn't affect the student's GPA, as it's not factored into the calculation.
- Non-punitive Withdrawal: DP grades are a non-punitive way for students to withdraw without harming their academic record.
- Alternative Grades: Other possible withdrawal notations are:
- DF (Dropped Failing): Assigned when a student withdraws while failing the course.
- W (Withdrew): A more generic withdraw notation, which might be used regardless of academic standing at the time of withdrawal.
Example
Imagine a student taking a mathematics class. They find that the workload is too demanding, and they are barely managing to pass the tests and assignments. After the university's drop deadline, they choose to withdraw to focus on other classes. Since they were passing at the point of withdrawing, their transcript will show a DP grade for that mathematics course.
Important Note:
- The specific policies and grade codes can differ between institutions, so students should consult their university's academic regulations for precise information.
- Understanding these grade notations is essential for maintaining a clear and accurate academic record and for long-term educational planning.
| Grade | Meaning | GPA Impact |
|---|---|---|
| DP | Dropped Passing | No |
| DF | Dropped Failing | No |
| W | Withdrew | No |
