What happens to your OSAP eligibility if you drop or withdraw from courses?
One of the criteria used by OSAP to determine your eligibility is your course load. To be eligible for assistance through OSAP you must be taking at least 60 per cent of a full course load (or 40 per cent if you are a student with a documented permanent disability).This criterion applies all through your period of study. If at any time your course load falls below 60 per cent, you cease to be eligible for OSAP assistance. Another consequence of falling below 60 per cent of a full course load is that you lose your interest free status on any previously negotiated student loans.

For OSAP purposes, a course load at Fanshawe College is calculated by the number of course hours per week of study. For example, if a full course load (100 per cent) is 25 hours per week, a 60 per cent course load is 15 hours per week. For students with a documented permanent disability, the standard is successful completion of at least 40 per cent course load. For example, if a full course load (100 per cent) is 25 hours per week, a 40 per cent course load is 10 hours per week.

For OSAP purposes, no averaging of course load is permitted. For example, if you are taking 80 per cent of a full course load in the fall term, and 40 per cent of a full-course load in the winter term, the course loads cannot be averaged to equal 60 per cent to meet the minimum requirement. In this scenario, you would not be eligible for OSAP assistance in the winter term.

It is imperative that you discuss any proposed change in your course load with a Financial Aid Officer to maintain your OSAP eligibility. Financial Aid Office is in E2020, or telephone 519.452.4280.

Applying for another program?
Are you planning to start a new program at Fanshawe, or another college? Online applications are available on the OCAS website for the academic year 2007/2008. The deadline for equal consideration is February 1, 2007. If you are in preparatory program, check the website to see if there is a GPA requirement for admission to your career program.

Important Dates
When is the last date I can withdraw without getting an F?
For many courses, it's November 14. But not always! Check your Student Verification Form for the exact date.

And remember! This withdrawal deadline has nothing to do with fees. You are responsible to pay your full fees for the whole term, even if you withdraw from all your courses by this date.

Office of the Registrar
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This column is a Student Success Initiative sponsored by Counselling and Student Life Services, Financial Aid and the Office of the Registrar.