Students must follow UAB’s academic policies as outlined in the UAB Undergraduate Catalog. Exceptions to these policies are granted only under extraordinary circumstances. Specifically, students called to active military service may qualify for either administrative or academic withdrawal from courses within that semester. For such exceptions, students must provide specific documentation to support their requests. Not meeting the drop and withdrawal deadlines (as stated in the UAB Catalog and Class Schedule) does not constitute a valid exception. Students are responsible for knowing and adhering to these deadlines and policies. If a student is unable to continue a course for reasons that do not meet the strict criteria of this policy, they should utilize full-term withdrawal option or voluntary medical withdrawal option.

An approved appeal does not lower tuition and related fees. In the rare case that an appeal leads to a tuition reduction, any refunds will be applied first to any outstanding balances and then to any scholarships, grants, or loans the student received for that term. A student receiving Federal Title IV Financial Aid will be responsible for repaying any unearned funds as specified by the Federal Return of Funds Policy (for more information, contact the Student Accounting Office).

Procedure for Submitting an Exception Appeal

The student appeal should be submitted online through BlazerNet along with cause-specific supporting documentation. Instructions for submitting an appeal for possible consideration are listed below:

• Login to BlazerNet
• Select ‘Links/Forms’ in the green ribbon area on your Student Profile page
• Then select, ‘Academic Appeal Form’ listed under ‘Forms’
• Complete the required form and attach any supporting documentation
• Press ‘Submit My Appeal’

You will be notified by email of the status of your Exception to Academic Policy when documentation has been received and the completed file has been reviewed.

Examples of Documentation

Examples of documentation include:

• A copy of the official military orders that specify the conditions under which the student was activated to military service.