What’s the difference between dropping a course and withdrawing?

When you drop a course it is removed from your transcript. No permission is needed from an instructor, and it can be done through PATH@Penn.

Withdrawing from a course takes place after the drop period, the student completes a PATH form, which requires the instructor’s permission. A “W” will be placed on the transcript next to the course.

The Drop deadline is at the end of the fifth week, and the deadline to withdraw from a course is at the end of the tenth week.  Please access the Academic Calendar for specific dates.