Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: I am writing to request a late drop for MATH 121 and CISC 101 under the Faculty of Arts and Science academic petition process. I experienced extenuating psychological circumstances during my first year that significantly impacted my ability to meet academic expectations, and I believe I meet the criteria for a late drop as outlined in the policy.

While enrolled in the Computer Science program, I failed both MATH 121 and CISC 101 despite spending significant time and effort on my studies. I was consistently overwhelmed and unable to manage the academic demands. These difficulties were not due to a lack of engagement, but to a deeper issue I didn’t fully understand at the time.

In high school, a social worker raised the possibility that I might have ADHD, but it was not formally addressed. Entering university without a diagnosis or support, I struggled to keep up and experienced constant mental fatigue. These challenges impacted multiple courses and made it extremely difficult to function academically.

In Fall 2024, I was formally diagnosed with ADHD and registered with QSAS. I now have accommodations and external support in place that help me manage my academic responsibilities. However, during the period I completed MATH 121 and CISC 101, I was undiagnosed and unsupported. I believe this context explains why my performance in those courses does not reflect my true potential.

I am submitting this petition now because I was previously unaware that these circumstances qualified for academic consideration. I only recently learned, through advising, that I could petition for a late drop in situations like mine.

Thank you for your time and consideration.