Withdrawal of studies
During your studies there may be a time when you consider withdrawing from the University. The reasons why this might happen will vary, but often relate to financial, family issues, health or to academic problems and difficulties. At these times withdrawing from study might seem the only option available to you. The University is concerned for the welfare of its students, and if you do have particular difficulties or problems which are affecting your study and causing you to consider withdrawal from the University, then we suggest that you speak with a staff member before making the decision to withdraw.
If your programme of study is not what you expected, then it may be possible to change to another programme although in some cases you may need a break in study to rejoin your new programme at an appropriate point. Staff within Student Programmes will be able to advise you.
Advice before you withdraw from your studies
You may have felt low and unenthusiastic about your studies for some time and have now fallen behind with assessments. If you are struggling with your studies talk to a member of your School’s advising team or to Student Development and Support. If you are on a research programme then we suggest that you speak with your supervisor or Division’s Postgraduate Research Tutor before making the decision to withdraw. You are also welcome to contact Student Programmes or the Institute for Advanced Studies for advice.
The University has a wealth of trained and experienced staff who can provide you with guidance. Please see the ‘Thinking About Leaving' University section for a full list of contact details.
Leave of absence
There is an alternative to withdrawing. It may be that with additional support or by obtaining a break from your studies, a leave of absence, you might be able to keep your academic career on track.
If, having carefully considered all the other options, you have decided to go ahead and withdraw, you will need to make sure that you organize your withdrawal as efficiently as possible. You will want to ensure that your academic record reflects your decision accurately. If you do not withdraw formally, you may find that you are eventually recorded as having been withdrawn for reason of academic failure because you did not submit assessments or attend exams. This may cause you problems in the future if you wanted to apply elsewhere or submit your transcript of studies to an employer.
In order to ensure that your record is updated correctly, you need to make sure that you have followed the relevant withdrawal procedure. You are also required to return your ID card to the Student Services Hub, based in Campus Central.
If you have any questions regarding your student record please contact Student Programmes.
How to withdraw
In order to ensure that your record is updated correctly, you need to make sure that you have followed the relevant withdrawal procedure. You are also required to return your ID card to the Student Services Hub, based in Campus Central.
You will be withdrawn with immediate effect. If you are still waiting on confirmation of module results please wait until you have your results to request you are withdrawn. If you have any questions regarding your student record please contact Student Programmes.
More specific information on what will/should happen if you withdraw from studies can be accessed via the links below:
Tuition fees
You should check the University's tuition fee policy regarding any liability you may have in respect of your tuition fees following withdrawal. If you require further clarification on your tuition fee liability, please contact tuitionfees@stir.ac.uk. If you are sponsored by the Students Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) or the Student Loans Company then the University is required to inform them of your withdrawal.
Stipend and Research Expenses
If you are funded by one of the research councils, your award will be terminated with effect from the date of your withdrawal. The University is required to inform the research council of your withdrawal.
Accommodation Rent
If you are living in University accommodation then you will need to contact Accomodation to establish if there are any implications of your withdrawal.
Transcripts
If you withdraw from your studies and are not eligible for an award, a transcript will be posted to your home address.
Eligibility for Academic Award (Undergraduate and Postgraduate Taught)
If you gained sufficient credit you may be eligible for an academic award. If this is the case then you will be notified by Student Programmes and invited to a Graduation ceremony. Your transcript will presented to you with your award at your ceremony. Should you not attend the ceremony then your certificate and transcript will be posted to you after the ceremony date.
Eligibility for Academic Award (Research Postgraduate)
If you are a professional doctorate student, you may still be eligible for an academic award. For example, if you are a professional doctorate student and have successfully completed the taught element of your programme, you may be eligible for a Postgraduate Diploma.
Tier 4 Students
The University of Stirling is required by Home Office (UK Visas and Immigration) to notify them of those students in receipt of a Tier 4 Visa who withdraw. If you withdraw from your studies you will no longer be sponsored under Tier 4 and the Home Office will expect you to leave the United Kingdom as soon as possible after withdrawing. Please refer to Immigration information for students who withdraw or take leave of absence from for further information.