Consider Withdrawal Flag Overview

Overview

The Consider Withdrawal flag is used to identify students who are at risk of failing a course late in the semester. This flag provides an opportunity for instructors to notify both the student and their academic advisor so the student can make an informed decision about whether to remain enrolled or withdraw before the deadline.

This flag helps ensure students understand their academic standing, the potential consequences of failing, and the options available for staying on track toward degree completion.

Flag Availability

• The flag is available during Weeks 12 and 13 (Fall and Spring terms). A special survey is sent to eligible faculty/courses.

• Instructors in these courses are able to raise the flag using the Progress Survey, My Students tab, or Zoom In tab.

• Only select courses identified and approved by each academic unit are included in the survey and have access to the flag.

  • Courses with 50 or more students

  • Courses with a historical 15% or higher DFW rate

  • Additional courses may be added at the discretion of unit leadership

If your course doesn't have the consider withdrawal flag available, consider using the In Danger of Failing flag to help ensure outreach to the student occurs.  If you believe your course should be included in future surveys, please contact muconnectsupport@missouri.edu. 

When to Raise the Flag

Faculty should raise the Consider Withdrawal flag when:

• The student is at risk of failing the course and is unlikely to recover based on current grades and participation.

• Previous outreach (such as emails, feedback, or earlier flags) has not resulted in improvement.

• The instructor has concern about the student’s ability to complete remaining work successfully.

This flag should be used in place of other Tier 1 or 2 flags when the student’s situation is urgent and may require a decision about course withdrawal.  

What Happens After the Flag Is Raised

• The student receives an email with the “Consider Withdrawal” template message, which includes:

  • A personalized note from the instructor (if provided)

  • Key information about potential academic and financial impacts

  • A reminder of the withdrawal deadline

  • Guidance to meet with their instructor, academic advisor, and Financial Aid

• The flag is visible to advisors and student support staff, who are responsible for outreach and follow-up.

• Advisors will:

  • Review the student’s overall academic record and remaining requirements

  • Contact the student to discuss options (withdrawing vs. completing the course)

  • Document outcomes and next steps in MU Connect

Flag Tier and Outreach Expectations

Advisors should prioritize students with this flag, as these students may be in immediate need of guidance and decision-making support.

Need Help?

For questions about:

• Flag access or survey inclusion – contact muconnectsupport@missouri.edu

• Outreach or follow-up expectations – contact your academic unit advising lead

• Withdrawal deadlines – visit the MU Registrar Academic Calendar