Prerequisites Cancellation Policy
Effective Date: May 7, 2026
Overview
We understand that circumstances can change. This policy outlines the terms under which cancellations and refunds are granted for course enrollments for all Vanderbilt University School of Nursing Prerequisite courses.
Cancellation Before Course Start
Participants who wish to cancel their enrollment before the course start date may do so by contacting us in writing at vusnofficeofexternallearning@vanderbilt.edu. The following schedule applies:
More than 14 days before the course start date: Full refund, minus any applicable processing fees.
Less than 7 days before the course start date: No refund; however, participants may transfer their enrollment to a future course session, subject to availability.
Cancellation After Course Has Started
No refunds will be issued once a course has begun, regardless of the reason for withdrawal. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Personal or scheduling conflicts
- Change of interest or circumstances
- Partial attendance or non-attendance after the start date
- Technical difficulties on the participant's end
Course Transfers
Participants who are unable to attend after a course has started may, at our discretion, be offered a one-time transfer to a future session of the same course. Transfer requests must be submitted in writing within 48 hours of the course start date and are subject to availability.
Cancellations by the Provider
In the event that we must cancel or reschedule a course, enrolled participants will be notified as soon as possible and offered:
A full refund of all course fees paid, or
A transfer to a rescheduled or equivalent session at no additional cost.
How to Request a Cancellation
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to vusnofficeofexternallearning@vanderbilt.edu and include:
- Full name of the enrolled participant
- Course name and scheduled start date
- Reason for cancellation (optional)
Cancellations are processed within 5–7 business days of receipt. Refunds, where applicable, are returned to the original payment method.
Policy Updates
We reserve the right to update this cancellation policy at any time. Any changes will be posted on our website and will apply to enrollments made after the updated effective date.
Prerequisites Withdrawal Policy
Effective Date: May 7, 2026
Overview
Students who wish to withdraw from a course after it has begun may do so at any time during the course. A formal withdrawal results in a grade of "W" (Withdrawal) will be recorded on the student's transcript. No refund of tuition or fees will be issued for withdrawals.
Eligibility for Withdrawal
A student is eligible to withdraw from a course if:
The course has already started, and
The withdrawal request is submitted to the Office of External Learning.
Students who stop attending without formally withdrawing will receive a grade of "F" for failing to meet the expectations of the course.
Withdrawal Window
Timeframe | Transcript Notation | Refund |
Before course start | Cancellation (no W) | Per Cancellation Policy |
Any time after the course starts | W (Withdrawal) | No refund |
Effect on Transcript
A grade of "W" will be permanently recorded on the students’ official transcript for any course from which they formally withdraw after the course has begun. The "W" notation indicates the student was enrolled and withdrew; it does not affect GPA calculation. However, students should be aware that:
Multiple "W" grades may raise concerns for future academic programs or employers.
Students are encouraged to consult their instructor before initiating a withdrawal.
No Refund Policy
No tuition or fee refunds will be issued for course withdrawals. By submitting a withdrawal request, the student acknowledges and agrees that:
All tuition and fees paid are non-refundable upon withdrawal.
The withdrawal does not release the student from any outstanding balance owed.
Any payment plans or financial obligations remain in effect.
How to Withdraw
To initiate a formal withdrawal, students must submit a written request to vusnofficeofexternallearning@vanderbilt.edu including:
- Full legal name
- Course name and start date
- Date of the withdrawal request
Verbal or informal requests (e.g., notifying an instructor) do not constitute an official withdrawal. The withdrawal is not effective until confirmed in writing by an authorized staff member.
Withdrawal Confirmation
Upon processing, the student will receive written confirmation of the withdrawal and the "W" notation. Transcript updates are typically reflected within 10 business days.
Appeals
Students who believe they qualify for an exceptional circumstance (such as a serious medical emergency with documentation) may submit a written appeal to vusnofficeofexternallearning@vanderbilt.edu. Appeals are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and do not guarantee a change in outcome. Approved appeals may result in removal of the "W" notation or, in rare cases, a partial administrative adjustment — but do not include refunds.
Policy Updates
We reserve the right to update this policy at any time. Changes will be posted on our website and apply to enrollments made after the updated effective date.