Your first semester at WashU will provide opportunities to take many types of new classes! With this also comes more choices (and more responsibility) when deciding what classes to take, how to take them, and how to find academic support. 

Want to change classes?

The add/drop period is the perfect time to explore your options before fully committing to classes. The period lasts the first couple weeks of the semester, with the last day to drop classes being Sept. 3, 2026. During this time, you can drop any classes you ultimately decide not to take without a withdrawal appearing on your transcript. So show up to as many classes as you want and try out the first couple of days before ultimately deciding on what your schedule will look like for the semester. 

Because of this, many seats change around during this period, meaning that waitlists often move quickly. If there’s a class that you are excited about but on the waitlist for, don’t be afraid to show up anyways!

Want to change grading?

The final date for students to change their classes’ grading options is on November 13, 2026, a couple of weeks after fall break. This means that you can ultimately decide if there are classes you would prefer to take Pass/No Pass (P/NP) rather than for a letter grade. This could be a good option to consider if there is a class you want to take with lower stakes, or you would prefer that a lower grade not be factored into your GPA. Each semester, Arts & Sciences, Sam Fox, and Olin students may take one class with the P/NP option. McKelvey students may take up to 6 credits (often 2 classes) of P/NP coursework, provided that they are all electives. These classes will still be counted towards your overall B.A. degree, although they may not count towards your major, minor, and other school-specific requirements. Your four-year advisors are great resources when navigating whether or not this option makes sense for you! More specific details covering P/NP can also be found through your school’s bulletin.

Want to find academic help?

WashU provides many academic support resources throughout the semester. These services come at no additional cost and are there to help in whatever capacity works best for you!

The Writing Center offers help and guidance for all types of writing and public speaking. Whether you’re working on a project for school, applications, or just for yourself, the experts at The Writing Center are available to guide you through any or all steps of the process! You can register for free one-on-one appointments through their website (writingcenter.wustl.edu) or during walk-in hours which take place Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 2-5 p.m. Walk-in hours begin after fall break and are held in Mallinckrodt 130.

WashU’s Learning Center offers a wide range of resources to support you across many academic disciplines. From structured study groups to individualized tutoring, you’ll have an array of options to choose from that are catered to different learning styles. You’ll be supported by other students who’ve taken similar courses and will help you navigate any questions you may have.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help, support, or just a little bit of guidance! The transition into college looks different for everyone. These resources are here for you, don’t be afraid to use them.