<p>I've been reading these threads trying to make a decision on this issue and decided to go ahead and ask one w/ more personal information. I'm applying to Duke, UNC, Georgetown, and BC from a top 20 university. This current semester I have A's in 3 of my classes however my calculus class the professor this semester decided to give 2-3 question tests with little room for partial credit thus leaving a 157 person class with a test average around 50-51. He has since had to lower 50 to be a passing grade in order to ensure that the majority of the class will pass. I currently am one of those who as of right now would have a passing grade (I guess that would be a D) however clearly none of the aforementioned colleges would appreciate that. The university I'm at allows you a one-time freshman withdrawal without penalty at anytime during the semester. I therefore could withdraw from the class thus maintaining my 3 As. However I already reported being in the class (clearly as I submitted my application much early in the semester). As a result I was wondering what effect having a W in this case would have on the decision and whether I would need to notify them of having withdrawn from the class or whether I do not need to report this until a final transcript was sent based on admission.</p>
<p>(1) Yes, you should withdraw, and
(2) You should notify them only if it is a required prerequisite for your major and/or to be admitted at that university.</p>