Do I Have to Pay if I Drop a Class?

Almost half of all college students drop a class at least once during their program, but those using educational benefits may be worried about the financial implications. Dropping a class is not bad; in fact, there are some cases where it may be preferable to withdraw from -- or drop -- a class that you would otherwise fail. Failing a class brings down your GPA, even if only temporarily, and dropping it does not. Each school has its own rules and deadlines for dropping and retaking classes, so make sure you check their calendar. 

Who pays if I fail a class?

There are many questions about the repercussions of failing a class, but the good news is that you will not lose your benefits if you fail a course. If you attend the class through the end of the semester, you won't have to repay that class's portion or pay to retake it.

Failing a class does affect your GPA, and all students who are using any VA education benefits must have at least a 2.0 semester GPA, and complete two-thirds of the courses attempted each semester.

What happens to my monthly payment if I drop a class?

Leaving a class officially by a specific deadline will be noted as a drop. The VA will pay for you to repeat the class until the grade meets the requirements dictated by the program or degree. If you wish to repeat a class for a higher (non-failing) grade, the VA may not pay for that repeated course.

If you drop a class after the deadline, there are slightly more details in the answer. If withdrawing or dropping from that class brings you from a full-time to a part-time student, your monthly housing allowance rate will change, which means you may have received too much money from the VA and must repay it or see it reflected in your next payment.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes! The VA has a one-time exception you can use when you drop up to six credit hours that allows you to keep the benefits you received up to the drop. Again, this can only happen one time. The good news is that you do not have to show or explain your circumstances to receive this exception.

Dropping a class is normal; failing a class is ok! Talk with your advisor before deciding to drop the class, and make sure you utilize all your benefits -- including tutoring resources -- before you get to the end of the semester.

Learn more about GI Bill® benefits and other resources available to veterans and military-connected students.