Statement

A full-time or part-time doctoral student must complete their degree program within seven years and a master’s student must complete their degree program within five years of the initial date of matriculation.* A student who exceeds their time to completion is subject to academic dismissal from their program, in which case they would need to reapply for admission to the University.

*Includes any time spent on a Leave of Absence

Option to Petition for Increased Time to Completion

A student who wishes to petition for additional time to completion, due to extenuating circumstances, should consult their graduate academic advisor to: 1) determine a reasonable timeline for program completion; 2) develop a revised academic plan of study and; 3) request a letter of support. An extension may be requested for a minimum of one quarter and a maximum of one year. A petition for additional time to completion must be approved and supported by the academic advisor and, if applicable, the supervising professor(s).

The Petition for Increased Time to Completion Form [PDF], along with all required documents, must be submitted by the academic advisor to the Graduate College. A decision will be rendered as soon as possible once all documentation has been reviewed. The decision of the Graduate College is final and there are no further avenues of appeal. Should an extension be granted, the student should be aware that all coursework will be reviewed for timeliness. Students who are granted a one-time extension may petition for one additional quarter, otherwise they will be subject to dismissal.

Increased time to completion may have additional financial implications. Students should consult with Drexel Central.

International Students on F-1 or J-1 Visas must consult with International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) prior to requesting increased time to completion.

Updated 1/12/22.