Sometimes life at university doesn't go as planned. Maybe the workload feels overwhelming, you're questioning your choice of course, or you're not sure if university is the right place for you. Whatever the reason, if you're thinking about dropping out of university, take a deep breath - you're not alone.
It's OK to rethink your path.
Before you make any big decisions, let's explore your options so you can decide what's best for you.
Why do students consider dropping out of university?
The decision to drop out of university isn't made overnight. It often stems from a variety of challenges that students face.
Let's look at the most common reasons and how to tackle them.
Struggling to Keep Up with Coursework?
Studying at university can be intense. Juggling essays, exams and endless deadlines can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Before you decide to drop out, consider these steps:
Get support: Your university may offer tutoring, workshops or study groups.
Manage your time effectively: Use tools like our Weekly Task Planner, an app like Notion or Google Calendar to break down your tasks into manageable chunks.
Ask for help: Talk to your professors - they may be able to give you an extension or suggest strategies to help you catch up.
With the right adjustments, and addressing the root cause of your struggles, you may find a way to manage your workload and life may become a little easier.
Worried About Tuition Fees and Living Expenses?
Financial pressures are a major reason why students think about dropping out of university. Here’s how you can ease the burden:
Look for financial support: Many universities have emergency funds, bursaries, or scholarships for students in need.
Budget wisely: Download our Budget Calculator in Student Bundles and take our Budgeting Basics for Students mini-course to help you manage your money better.
Look for part-time work: Coffee shop, retail shops, tutoring, or promoting products on TikTok as a side hustle can all provide additional income without overwhelming your schedule.
Support is available — speak to your student services team for advice.
Feeling Isolated or Having Difficulty Making Friends?
University life can be lonely, especially if you’re far away from home. If social isolation is making you question whether you should stay, ask yourself if you have given it a chance, and try these ideas first before making a decision:
Join societies or clubs: Whether it’s sports, gaming, or improving your knowledge of a foreign language, joining a club can connect you with like-minded people who may cheer you up and encourage you to integrate fully into university life.
Attend events: Campus activities, workshops, or even casual meetups can help you expand your social circle and make you feel part of the community.
Use university resources: Many institutions offer peer support networks or counselling services for students who feel isolated. Be bold and ask for help.
Building relationships and connecting with people can take time, but investing in friendships can make all the difference to enjoying the university life experience.
Understanding the source of your frustration or feelings can help you decide what to do next.
Having Second Thoughts About Your Course?
No longer passionate about the subject you signed up for? This is quite common among students - probably more than you think.
Here’s how to pivot:
Switch courses: Talk to your academic advisor about the possibility of transferring to another course that interests you.
Take a break: Consider deferring for a year to reassess your goals and interests.
Explore alternative higher education or career paths: From vocational training to online certifications, there are other ways to achieve your career goals.
Sticking with something you’re unhappy with isn’t the answer—there’s always another route.
What If University Just Isn’t Right for You?
If, after exploring all your options, you still feel that university isn’t for you, there are plenty of other routes to consider.
Vocational Training and Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships allow you to earn while you learn, combining practical experience with qualifications. This is a great option for hands-on learners or those who want to avoid student debt.
You could also look into vocational training for specific skills such as coding, graphic design, or marketing. Many of these programmes are short and flexible, helping you fast-track your career goals.
Upskilling Online
Explore online courses which provide you with a convenient training program and certification (often free!) that you can do in the comfort of your own home and at a pace that suits you.
Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and Google Certifications offer affordable and flexible options in tech, business, or creative fields.
Take a Gap Year
Sometimes, a gap year can provide clarity and you just need to step out of the hustle and bustle to regroup. But use this time wisely to:
Travel and recharge
Volunteer and build skills
Intern in a field of interest
A gap year isn’t wasted time—it’s a chance to refocus your energy and discover what truly motivates you.
Final Thoughts: Should You Drop Out of University?
Dropping out of university is a personal and life-changing decision. Before you take the plunge, make sure you’ve explored all options, from adjusting your study approach to considering alternative further education and career paths.
Remember that this is just one chapter in your journey. Whether you stay, transfer, or step away, there’s no “right” or “wrong” path — just the one that’s best for you.
Good luck!
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